Exciting New Leadership at VIA Transit as Jon Gary Herrera Takes Charge

Exciting Changes at VIA Transit: New Leadership Set to Take Charge

San Antonio, get ready for an exciting new chapter at VIA Transit! There’s been a significant shake-up in the leadership team, and *it’s all about progress and growth.* Starting January 4th, Jon Gary Herrera will officially step into the role of President and CEO, succeeding Jeffrey Arndt, who has been at the helm for a commendable 13 years. This is an exciting moment, not just for Herrera, but also for the city! Wondering why? Well, here’s the scoop.

A New Face, A Fresh Vision

Yes, you heard that right! Jon Gary Herrera isn’t just a new face; he’s making history as *the first Latino to lead the agency* in its 46-year history. Talk about breaking barriers! Born and raised in San Antonio, Herrera has been an integral part of the VIA family since 2017 when he joined the team as the Vice President of Public Engagement. He’s no stranger to the ins and outs of the agency, and his passion for public service is truly contagious.

A Legacy of Strength

The Board of Trustees had a tough job ahead of them, but they felt they hit the jackpot in choosing Herrera. Chairman Reyes mentioned during the announcement, “The Board chose from among three impressive and capable internal candidates, who have each demonstrated a passion for their work and a commitment to carry us forward to the future.” This speaks volumes about the talent within the agency and the high standards they uphold!

Under Jeffrey Arndt’s leadership, VIA has seen significant advancements, leaving behind a strong foundation for the next chapter. His departure marks the end of an era, but with his efforts, *he has undoubtedly made VIA stronger than he found it.* The Board expressed their sincere gratitude for the commitment and heart Arndt has shown over the years.

What’s Next for VIA Transit?

So, what can we expect with Herrera stepping into this new role? For starters, a fresh perspective is always valuable. Herrera is well-prepared to lead the agency into a new era and has a solid understanding of the community’s needs. He intends to focus on providing enhanced public engagement and ensuring that service delivery meets the expectations of current and potential riders.

The upcoming years promise to be filled with innovation and progress. Herrera’s experience in public engagement will likely shape VIA’s direction in a way that better connects with the community it serves. This means more responsive services, possibly some exciting service expansions, and, we hope, greater accessibility for everyone in San Antonio.

Community First Approach

Herrera’s journey is a testament to the *power of community involvement.* His local roots give him a keen insight into what San Antonio residents want and need from their transit system. This is a pivotal moment for the agency, and all eyes will be on how Herrera’s leadership will unfold.

The local transit scene is always evolving, and it’s clear that under Herrera’s leadership, you can expect a drumroll of enthusiasm and commitment that aims to elevate VIA Transit to new heights. We can’t wait to see the ideas and changes that will come to life under his guidance!

A Call to San Antonio

As San Antonio residents, it’s an exciting time to be involved with VIA Transit. Whether you’re a daily commuter or ride occasionally, *your voice matters.* Stay engaged, share your thoughts, and let’s welcome Herrera together as he takes the wheels of VIA Transit. After all, the future of public transportation is in our hands too!

So, mark your calendars for January 4th and let’s cheer on our new leader as he drives us towards a transformative journey ahead. Cheers to new beginnings!