Cincinnati Metro Wins Transit System Of The Year Award At Ohio Department Of Transportation’s Civil Rights Transportation Symposium

Shown, left to right, are Jack Marchbanks, Ph.D., Director, Ohio Department of Transportation; Tara Walker, Diversity and Inclusion Manager, Metro; and, Chris Runyan, President, Ohio Contractors Association. (Photo courtesy of Metro)

Cincinnati Metro was honored with the prestigious Transit System of the Year Award at the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Civil Rights Transportation Symposium. This recognition highlights Metro’s commitment to fostering tangible, measurable contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses.

“The Transit System of the Year Award serves as a testament to Metro’s tireless efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in our business practices,” Darryl Haley, Metro’s CEO and General Manager, said. “By actively engaging with small and disadvantaged businesses, we’ve not only strengthened our operations, but also contributed to the overall development of the region’s economy.”

“Metro has implemented a comprehensive strategy to ensure that small and disadvantaged businesses have equal access to contracting opportunities,” according to a press release. “In 2023, through intentional outreach programs, streamlined processes, and dedicated support services, Metro doubled contracts with these businesses from the previous year.

“Earlier this year, Metro and the Small Business Administration (SBA) formally entered a strategic partnership focused on bolstering regional small businesses. With nearly $500 million in procurement opportunities in 2024, the initiative aims to connect local minority, women, veteran, and disability-owned small businesses with Metro’s many opportunities and form new partnerships with a diverse array of businesses across the Cincinnati region.”

For more information about doing business with Metro, visit https://www.go-metro.com/about-metro/about2/doingbusiness.

Established in 1973 as a tax-funded, not-for-profit transportation provider by the Southwest Ohio Transit Authority, Metro has provided 50 years of fixed-route, paratransit, and on-demand service to Hamilton County, OH.