Recorded live at the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting, this special episode of Transit Unplugged tackles a big question: Does research actually improve public transportation?

Host Paul Comfort is joined by three leaders who are turning studies into real-world results:

Art Guzzetti, Vice President, Policy, American Public Transportation Association (APTA)

Kate Ko, PhD, Vice President, WSP

Michael Walk, Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute

Together they break down how the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) moves ideas from problem statements to implementation — and why agencies that use research make faster, smarter, and more rider-focused decisions.

You’ll hear:

The Baltimore bus network redesign that started with a research project

How automation will reshape — not eliminate — the transit workforce

New funding tools like value capture and congestion pricing

The link between operator culture, health, and retention

Why accessibility, safety, and customer experience are driving the next wave of studies

This is a behind-the-scenes look at the evidence, data, and collaboration that quietly power better transit for millions of riders.

If you work in transit and aren’t using this research — you’re leaving solutions on the table.

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.