March 29, 2024
Annapolis, US 39 F

Annapolis Transportation Director Receives National Award For Exemplary Service

Annapolis Mayor Joshua J. Cohen is pleased to announce that Richard A. Newell was awarded the Board of Director’s Exemplary Services Award by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) in honor of his dedicated service to the transportation industry.
“Richard’s leadership of the Annapolis Department of Transportation has been nothing short of transformative,” Mayor Cohen said.  “He took charge of a transit system that had more buses out of service than it had on the streets and turned it into a top performer.  Richard has addressed maintenance challenges, improved on-time performance, and raised the bar for professionalism and customer service.  He has overseen the creation of Annapolis’ successful Circulator Trolley.  He has shaken the dust off of the Annapolis Regional Transportation Vision and Master Plan to ensure that we are planning strategically for the future.  And he has done all this while reducing operating costs and enhancing accountability.  It is gratifying to see that Richard’s efforts are receiving the national recognition they deserve.”
This award is given to recognize an individual who has been:
• A long-time supporter of COMTO
• A strong supporter of persons of color in terms of employment and business opportunities
• A person that ensures a level playing field for minorities
“The department’s turn-around since Richard took over is astounding,” said City Manager Michael Mallinoff. “I am thrilled that COMTO saw it fitting to shine a spotlight on Richard’s dedicated service over the years and to his current work with Annapolis Transit.”
The award also recognizes individuals that has achieved years of experience as a leader and who have demonstrated outstanding service and leadership in public transportation.
Mr. Newell has a track record of success. As the Director of Quality Service for the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority from 2004 to 2009, he managed all bus and rail service, establishing methods for improving on-time performance and responding to customer service complaints, while reducing operating costs over five consecutive years. Before coming to Annapolis he was at MTA, where he directed 51 transit routes, which serve 268,000 riders a day.
“I remain committed to making Annapolis Transit a premier transit system that sets the standard for innovation and customer service excellence,” Mr. Newell said.
COMTO is the organization for the training, education and professional development of minority transportation professionals.  The mission of COMTO is to ensure a level playing field and maximum participation in the transportation industry for minority individuals, businesses and communities of color through advocacy, information, training, education and professional development.
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