Votran Shines with Multiple Prestigious Statewide Awards

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Posted On: October 3, 2024

Volusia County's public transit system, Votran, and several of its staff received multiple statewide awards at the annual conference of the Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) and the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD) held last month in West Palm Beach. Most notably, Votran claimed the 2024 Bus Safety Excellence, Gold Safety Award, marking the third time it has secured this accolade in four years. The award recognizes public transit systems that demonstrate exceptional commitment to safety and operational excellence.

"This recognition is a clear indicator of the quality and safety we strive to deliver daily," said Transit Services Planner Jacob Lunceford. "Our team's commitment to excellence is fundamental to our success, and their hard work continuously enhances our community's transit experience."

Bus Operator Richard "Rick" Ives, who has been with Votran for 12 years, captured second place for Bus Operator of the Year. In previous years, Ives has received the Votran Operator of the Year for 2023, the Above and Beyond Award, and the Perfect Attendance Award.

Mailoha "Mo" Melendez-Woods, a maintenance technician who has been with Votran for two years, clinched first place for Paratransit Technician of the Year. She is the first female technician at Votran to win this award and has previously secured second place in the State Roadeo, Paratransit Division.

Tommy Martin Jr., another maintenance technician, took third place for Bus Technician of the Year. Martin, who has been part of Votran for seven years, has earned multiple commendations for his work and participated in the 2024 State Roadeo, Fixed Route Division.

Votran Dispatcher/Scheduler Jodi Milisavic received the Award for Dispatcher/Scheduler of the Year. Milisavic schedules paratransit trips for riders with disabilities through the Votran Gold Service system. She has been with Votran for over 20 years.

Edie Biro, the customer service manager, won the William G. and Budd Bell Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to the Transportation Disadvantaged program. Biro has worked at Votran for 24 years and started her career as a paratransit operator.

Votran's legacy of excellence is evident in its numerous FPTA and CTD awards for marketing, safety, and service over the years, a testament to its commitment to public transit. For additional details about the awards Votran has won, visit www.votran.org.