METRO Vision

METRO light rail will be recognized as a trusted and respected community partner and visionary leader that provides a premier
regional rail transit system with a commitment to excellence and safety, which provides value, enhances quality of life and is a point of pride for our community.

METRO Mission

METRO provides a premier regional rail system that enhances mobility and strengthens the viability of our community.

Our Values

  • Accountability
  • Communication
  • Integrity
  • Leadership
  • Respect
  • Trust

 

Stephen R. Banta, METRO CEO

Stephen R. Banta has served in the public transit industry for more than 23 years, starting his career repairing rail cars in San Diego to previously working as the Executive Director of Operations of the seventh largest transit system in America, TriMet, in Portland, Ore. He has worked in progressively important positions in operations for several public transit agencies, including in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Dallas and Pittsburgh. 

Most recently, as the Executive Director of Operations for TriMet, Banta oversaw a system responsible for more than 350,000 trips each weekday and consisting of 52 miles of light rail, 14.7 miles of commuter rail, 81 bus lines and an extensive paratransit system. His keys to success include building a supportive environment for employees, a commitment to keeping equipment and facilities in a state of good repair, an unrelenting focus on the customer and a strong relationship with stakeholders who have invested interests in the growth and development of the community.

A central part of his commitment to the customer experience is Banta’s choice to use the transit system. He believes that the single most important aspect of leading a transit agency is having an understanding and appreciation for the “view through the windshield.” His extensive project start-up experience, combined with a deep working knowledge of bus and rail operations will help METRO maintain a customer focus while expanding into new services.