About Friends of Transit
Friends of Transit was incorporated in 2001 as an Arizona nonprofit corporation. The mission of Friends of Transit is to educate the public on the benefits and importance to the Greater Phoenix community of a well-designed and accessible mass transit system, which represents a major component of a balanced regional transportation plan.
The idea of forming Friends of Transit came about after the Phoenix electorate approved a sales tax increase in 2000 to fund a comprehensive transit system, consisting of improved bus service and the addition of a light rail transit component. As a result of the successful transit elections in the cities of Phoenix and Tempe, several community leaders identified the continuing need to educate the public about the benefits of the voter-approved plans, especially given that some elements of the system would not be implemented for several years following the vote.
Skip Rimsza, then Mayor of the City of Phoenix, led the charge on this initiative and invited more than 40 corporate and community leaders to meet and discuss the need for such an educational organization – thus, Friends of Transit was created and for 10+ years, has continued to educate the general public on the benefits of a balanced transportation system.
Board Members
Maria Hyatt, Chair
Scott Smith, Executive Committee
Jesus Sapien, Executive Committee
Mark Peterson
Katrina Heineking
Brian Vladyka
Gary Googins
Jodi Sorrell
Kyle Strickland
Marc Soronson, Vice Chair
Shelly Seyler
Melissa Boyles
Andrew Haines
Tyler Besch
Karim Dada
Karl Witbeck
Tony Ames
David Schwartz, Executive Director
Christina Bird, Treasurer

Nick Wiatrowski
Melinda Alonzo
Amy Jenks
Mike Smith
Ogbonna Abarikwu
Matthew Dudley
James Lauer
Tania Torres
Transit News
April 14, 2022 – Friends of Transit
Friends of Transit
- Central Station, planned downtown Phoenix transit hub, breaks ground
Based on artist renderings of the planned development, Central Station will have two tall towers: one 33-story apartment building, and another 22-floor building for student housing. Both with ret...
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April 07, 2022 – Friends of Transit
Friends of Transit
- Valley Metro, City of Phoenix renew Small Business Financial Assistance Program
Valley Metro, City of Phoenix renew Small Business Financial Assistance ProgramMore than 60 businesses along light rail extensions received grants during pilot year PHOENIX— After&...
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FOT on Facebook
Bicycle
Being a bicyclist in the Phoenix Metropolitan area can mean a variety of different things. Whether you’re training, commuting, or just looking for a way to get around, check out our list of resources.Light Rail
Light Rail is a great way to get around – check out our light rail resources for the Valley of the Sun and get the latest and the greatest on the light rail system.Pedestrian
Whether you’re training for a race, hiking, or looking to get from point A to point B, check out our pedestrian resources for the Phoenix Metropolitan area.Bus
Learn more about the regional bus service in the Phoenix Metropolitan area including: tips on how to plan your trip, how to get your questions answered, and destinations of interest.Our Contributors









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