Palm Tran Honors Local Black Pioneers on Black History Month Bus Wrap

ANAND PERALA
Senior Public Relations Specialist
Palm Tran
West Palm Beach, FL

Maude Ford Lee, Palm Beach County’s first black female county commissioner, Edward Rodgers, the first black judge in Palm Beach County, and Solomon D. Spady, the first black educator and community leader in Delray Beach, are a few of the 37 names showcased on Palm Tran’s Black History Month bus. The commemorative bus debuted on Feb. 21 at the Palm Beach County Clayton B. Hutchinson Complex in West Palm Beach, before a joint meeting between the Board of County Commissioners and Florida State Legislators.

“This bus is tremendous. I love that it highlights individual African American leaders from Palm Beach County,” said Reginald Duren, the first black fire rescue chief for Palm Beach County. “It serves as a beacon of hope, showing people achievement is possible.”

This year’s theme, “Legacy in Motion,” is written in yellow near the front of the bus, while “Honoring the First African American Leaders of Palm Beach County” appears on the top of the bus. The words “Black History Month” are brightly displayed in large, stylized letters against a black background in the center of the bus. The livery of the 40-foot vehicle, designed in-house by Palm Tran’s award-winning graphic designer, is a vivid display of red, green, black, and gold—the colors of the Pan-African flag symbolizing the rich history of black culture.

Each side lists more than a dozen local community leaders in government, healthcare, and education who were the first in their position, including the late Clinton B. Forbes, the first black executive director at Palm Tran.

“This bus is more than just a moving tribute,” said Palm Beach County Administrator Verdenia C. Baker, the first black woman to hold the position. “It is an educational tool, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of the perseverance and achievements of Palm Beach County’s black leaders.”

“It’s great to celebrate the legacy of excellence and professionalism of our local leaders,” said David Ricks, Palm Beach County’s first black county engineer and public works director. “The younger generation can see the path to leadership and know they are represented in the county.”

Palm Tran Executive Director Ivan Maldonado echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader impact of the initiative. “Public transportation is more than just a service, it’s a connection to opportunity, progress, and community. This bus reflects our dedication to honoring those who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations.”

As part of the celebration, Palm Tran also partnered with the Palm Beach County Community Services Department on Feb. 24 to offer a Black History and Cultural Tour, providing residents with a first-hand educational experience of local African American heritage sites. Attendees boarded the bus to visit key historical landmarks, including the Spady Museum in Delray Beach, the Sunset Lounge in West Palm Beach, and the Unity Wall in Lake Worth Beach.

The bus will remain in circulation throughout the year, ensuring that these extraordinary leaders and their contributions continue to be recognized beyond February. It is expected to be seen by more than 544,000 people each month, traveling across the county and reaching residents from all walks of life.

Palm Tran remains committed to celebrating our community and highlighting the figures who have shaped the fabric of Palm Beach County.