RTA news

June 23, 2009

This statement was issued today by Joe Calabrese, CEO and General Manager of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA).

Our hearts go out to everyone who was affected by this tragedy in Washington, DC.

It especially hits home to all of us involved in the transit industry. It causes us to pause, reflect and re-assess the vital importance of what we do. It heightens our awareness of our role in the safety of this operation.

In the weeks ahead, as we learn more about what caused the Washington, DC crash, we will re-examine our rail safety systems, procedures and training.

We will make modifications if needed.

We are doing our very best to operate safely every day. While there are no guarantees in life, we remain focused on the safety of our customers and our system.

We have both procedures and technologies in place to enhance the safety of RTA customers and employees on our rail system.

It is not appropriate for RTA to make further statements while the accident is under investigation.

RTA RAIL FACTS:

RTA carries about 200,000 people on a weekday. About 15 percent of them use Rapid Transit.
RTA operates about 3 million miles of rail service each year.
RTA operates 108 rail cars on 37 miles of one-way track.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES ONLY:

Jerry Masek, RTA, 216-566-5211