Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for TARC: An Interview with Executive Director Ozzy Gibson TARC’s Funding Challenges and the Potential for a Referendum

Louisville’s Public Transit Agency TARC Gets a New Leader in Ozzy Gibson

Louisville’s public transit agency, TARC, is facing a $30 million budget deficit and declining ridership. In an effort to turn things around, the agency recently appointed Ozzy Gibson as its new executive director. Gibson, who previously led the Parks and Recreation Department and served as president of the Louisville Riverport Authority, is known for his ability to tackle challenges and bring about positive change.

Gibson is no stranger to taking on multiple responsibilities at once. From managing Louisville Metro Animal Services to overseeing Public Works and the Public Health and Wellness Department, Gibson has a proven track record of success. Despite not having any formal education or experience in public transit, Gibson’s fresh perspective and willingness to ask tough questions have made him a valuable asset in previous leadership roles.

One of Gibson’s first tasks at TARC will be spearheading a network redesign initiative. The agency has hired consultants to help overhaul its bus routes and improve service efficiency. With three proposed scenarios for the new bus network, TARC officials are hopeful that public feedback will help shape the future of public transit in Louisville.

Gibson is committed to engaging with the community and gathering input from residents and public officials to determine the best course of action for TARC’s next five years. With a focus on financial sustainability and improved service quality, Gibson is optimistic about the agency’s potential for growth and success.

As TARC looks towards the future, Gibson’s leadership and dedication to serving the community will be crucial in shaping the agency’s direction. With plans for public feedback meetings and discussions with local politicians, TARC is poised to make significant strides in improving public transit in Louisville. Louisville’s public transportation system, TARC, is facing a funding dilemma as its main source of revenue, the city’s 2.2% occupational license tax, has remained unchanged since 1974. TARC’s executive director, Ferdinand Risco Jr., has expressed the need to increase the organization’s portion of the tax rate to keep up with peer cities like Cincinnati and Indianapolis.

However, any increase in TARC’s funding would require approval from the Metro Council to put a ballot referendum to voters. This decision ultimately rests in the hands of the community, as they will have to determine the level of support and funding they want to allocate towards public transit.

Risco emphasized the importance of investing in public transportation to meet the growing needs of the city, pointing to the successful referendums in Indianapolis and Cincinnati as examples of cities that have prioritized funding for public transit. With various projects in the pipeline, including potential expansion and improvement initiatives, the decision on TARC’s funding will have a significant impact on the future of public transportation in Louisville.