What People Get Wrong About Rural Transit

This week, we’re exploring the realities of leading transit systems that operate far beyond downtown cores and traditional commuter patterns. From rural Texas to growing suburban markets, transit leaders are being asked to solve increasingly complex mobility challenges with limited resources, changing travel behaviors, and diverse rider needs. Along the way, we’re revisiting a conversation about why reliability may matter more than chasing old ridership benchmarks—and highlighting a new rail experience that reminds us transportation can still inspire a sense of adventure.

Let’s roll.

PREMIER: Wendy Weedon

Paul Comfort continues his series featuring new transit CEOs. In this conversation, he speaks with Wendy Weedon, CEO of the Brazos Transit District. After spending 17 years with the organization, Wendy stepped into the top leadership role in September and now oversees one of Texas’ most diverse transit systems.

COMING SOON: Canyon Spirit

All aboard for something special. In this episode of Transit Unplugged TV, host Paul Comfort takes you along for the maiden voyage of the Canyon Spirit—a brand-new luxury rail journey across the American West. This isn’t just transportation. It’s a curated journey through the Wild West—one where the views, the service, and the stories come together for a truly memorable experience.

ICYMI: Christy Wegener

Paul Comfort speaks with Christy Wegener, Executive Director of the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority (LAVTA), about the changing realities of suburban transit, evolving commuter behavior, and why reliability may matter more than ridership.