Greenlink accepting applications for new Citizens Transit Academy

Greenlink is accepting applications for its inaugural Citizens Transit Academy, which will be held in January. The Citizens Transit Academy will offer Greenville County residents a unique opportunity to learn about public transportation and the opportunities and challenges facing Greenlink. The free, four-week program is open to anyone age 18 or older. Classes will be held on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Greenlink Transit Center at 100 West McBee Avenue. Drinks and snacks will be provided by the Piedmont Health Foundation.

The class schedule is below and the application is available online. The deadline to apply is Friday, December 7 at 5 p.m. A selection committee will review the applications and Greenlink will announce the inaugural class on Friday, December 14.

Class Schedule

• January 8:        Services, day-to-day operations, safety and training
• January 15:     Operational redesigns and investments in technology
• January 22:     Finances, capital needs and service expansion
• January 29:     Plans for the future and community efforts

According to Gary Shepard, Greenlink’s director of public transportation, public support and awareness are crucial to maintaining a viable transit system. “The majority of Greenville County residents have never ridden a Greenlink bus, so our hope is that educating citizens will help broaden the community’s understanding and appreciation for the role that Greenlink plays and the importance of a robust transit system,” said Shepard. “The Citizens Transit Academy is a perfect opportunity for anyone interested in getting more involved in the discussion about mobility in Greenville County.”

Graduates of the Citizens Transit Academy will be recognized as knowledgeable representatives for public transit and will be encouraged to serve in leadership roles and seek opportunities to engage the community in conversations about transit.