APTA President Addresses FPTA Annual Conference

APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas addressed the Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) Annual Conference in St. Petersburg Beach, FL, Sept. 3.

In his remarks, Skoutelas noted how the past year had brought new challenges and opportunities for the public transportation industry. APTA, he said, worked collaboratively with two different Administrations and Congresses and has been building good working relationships with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and his staff, as well as FTA Administrator Marcus J. Molinaro.

He also noted that APTA is strongly encouraging its members and the transit community to urge representatives and senators to fully fund public transit and passenger rail in the FY26 THUD Appropriations bill.

Skoutelas recognized FPTA Executive Director Lisa Bacot and Board Chair Karen Deigl, who both have made many contributions to the industry and their area. The FPTA, Skoutelas said, has been a vital and effective part of advocacy efforts to earn historic levels of funding.