On Tuesday, August 16, 2016, the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will present the 4th annual KCATA Rosa Parks SPIRIT Awards celebrating individuals and organizations that, in the spirit of Civil Rights Leader Rosa Parks, are making a difference in metro Kansas City and in public transit.
This year’s award will honor four difference makers at a reception beginning at 5:00 p.m. at Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland, located at 1228 Main Street in downtown Kansas City. The honors include:
The Champion of Transit Award, presented to Emanuel Cleaver, U.S. Representative, 5th District, for demonstrating support and advocacy for public transportation in the Kansas City region. Cleaver has been a long-time supporter of public transportation, and is recognized nationally for promoting the importance of federal investment in transportation infrastructure. He has been instrumental in securing federal funding for regional transit improvements, including MAX Bus Rapid Transit, the downtown streetcar, TIGER grants and ShotSpotter.
The RideKC Award, presented to Jermaine Reed, KCMO City Councilman, 3rd District, for demonstrating great strides in building a more integrated regional transit system. Councilman Reed has been a long-time believer in public transportation’s role in transforming communities. He has led the Prospect MAX Advisory Committee, has successfully worked locally and nationally to secure federal funds for Kansas City’s third MAX Bus Rapid Transit line in the Prospect Corridor and has strongly supported improving transit access to opportunity as Chairman of the City Council’s Transportation And Infrastructure Committee.
The Community Partner Award, presented to KC Streetcar Authority, for commitment to working collaboratively and innovatively to improve the overall public transportation experience and the quality of life in the Kansas City region. The KCSA has worked collaboratively with residents and businesses to return streetcar service to downtown after 50 years, while ensuring streetcar service is integrated with regional transit service and is part of the RideKC brand.
The Business Partner Award, presented to Alphapointe, for private sector support of public transportation to improve the quality of life for its employees, residents and visitors to the city. KCATA’s partnership with Alphapointe has resulted in a higher level of customer service and sensitivity for the riding public by including users of the KCATA system in ongoing research, evaluation and quality control.
Award Winners
Champion of Transit Award
Emanuel Cleaver, U.S. Representative
Community Partner Award
Tom Gerend, Executive Director, KC Streetcar Authority
Business Partner Award
Reinhard Mabry, President, Alphapointe
RideKC Award
Jermaine Reed, KCMO City Councilman, 3rd District