FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMEDIA CONTACTS:Paul Shepard Office: 410-767-3935 Cell: 443-622-4181 pshepard@mdot.maryland.govCourtney Mims Office: 410 -767-8367 Cell: 667-392-0157 cmims@mdot.maryland.govVolunteers Will Engage with Agency Leaders on Priority Areas for Youth RidersBALTIMORE, MD (September 12, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration is opening applications for the next cohort of the Youth Transit Council, a forum for 14- to 18-year-olds in the Baltimore region. Participants will get the opportunity to learn how the Maryland Transit Administration operates, offer suggestions and explore career options available in the public transportation industry. Teens interested in joining the volunteer council are invited to apply at mta.maryland.gov/youth-transit-council.“The Youth Transit council is one way we empower the next generation to shape the future of transit," said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. “This forum allows MTA to hear directly from our younger riders and ensure that their needs are being met."As the council enters its second year, its objective will remain to provide youth with a forum to raise awareness and understanding of topics most important to their public transportation experience. By connecting volunteer members of the council with Maryland Transit Administration staff, the Youth Transit Council is designed to foster understanding and collaboration between the agency and its young customers.Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, September 25 and applicants should live in the Maryland Transit Administration's core service area. The 20-person all-volunteer council will be representative across various ages, geographies, demographics and schools. Members will collaborate with other young riders, unlock exciting opportunities for career development in the transportation industry, earn service hours needed for high school graduation and gain insight on how a transit system functions. Participants will also have an opportunity to earn letters of recommendation for future educational and career opportunities.Youth Transit Council meetings will be scheduled each month on the fourth Saturday, may be held in-person or virtual, and will last approximately two hours. Applicants must be able to attend at least six meetings per academic year. More details about the Youth Transit Council is available at mta.maryland.gov/youth-transit-council.The Maryland Transit Administration is one of the largest multi-modal transit systems in the United States, and operates local and commuter buses, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train Service and a comprehensive Mobility paratransit system. The goal of the Maryland Transit Administration is to provide safe, efficient and reliable transit across Maryland with world-class customer service. To learn more, visit mta.maryland.gov, check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mtamaryland and follow us on Twitter @mtamaryland.