Executive Director, David W. Tripp

Metro Bus Board of Commissioners Opens Search Process for Next Executive Director

The Metro Bus Board of Commissioners has opened the search process for replacing long time Executive Director, David W. Tripp. Tripp announced to the Board on December 18 that he will be retiring effective April 26, 2013, after a 33 year career with the agency.

The Board has chosen an 11 member committee of community, citizen and business leaders to assist in the selection process. Chairing the Committee is Wanda Overland, Vice President for Student Life and Development at St. Cloud State University.

Under Tripp’s leadership, Metro Bus has experienced tremendous growth from a small three-city transit system to a multiple award winning urban system now serving the four cities of St. Cloud, Sartell, Sauk Rapids and Waite Park, seven days a week with Fixed Route, Dial-a-Ride, University, and Northstar Link commuter bus services. Metro Bus has consistently ranked at or near the top in peer transit system performance comparisons, with ridership now reaching over 2.4 million rides per year.

Recently Metro Bus received a Federal Clean Fuels grant from the US DOT for a Compressed Natural Gas fueling facility and building renovation project that Tripp envisioned several years ago. Announcement of this grant award was personally delivered to Metro Bus by US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

“Dave has directed a dedicated and skilled workforce committed to innovation, quality and customer service that is well respected throughout our communities,” said Paul Ringsmuth, Commission Chairman. “Metro Bus wishes to express its sincere appreciation to Dave for his 33 years of outstanding service.”