Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins Named 2023 Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member by the American Public Transportation Association
MIAMI-DADE – Today, District 5 Commissioner and Chair of the Transportation, Mobility, and Planning Committee Eileen Higgins was recognized as the 2023 Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) at its annual expo in Orlando, Florida. This prestigious award celebrates Commissioner Higgins’ dedication to advancing public transportation in Miami-Dade County and her remarkable leadership within the industry.
The 2023 APTA awards distinguish organizations and leaders in the public transportation industry in North America who have demonstrated significant leadership, are outstanding role models of excellence, and whose accomplishments and innovations have greatly advanced public transportation.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award from APTA, an organization that leads the way in supporting and advocating for effective and equitable public transportation,” said Commissioner Higgins. “I am committed to continuing my work as the Chair of the Transportation, Mobility, and Planning Committee to create a world-class, efficient, and accessible transportation system for all our residents and visitors.” View Commissioner Eileen Higgins’ award acceptance video here.
Throughout Commissioner Higgins' tenure, her unwavering commitment to revitalizing and improving the Miami-Dade Transit system has shone brightly. Her visionary leadership has steered a plethora of initiatives, all with the overarching goals of ushering in modernity, bolstering accessibility, and fostering innovation within the system. As the Transportation Steering Committee Chair of the National Association of Counties, she fights to make sure that the Federal government is prioritizing the policy and funding needs of local counties to meet their transportation needs.
One of Commissioner Higgins' most laudable achievements is her relentless pursuit of accessibility within Miami-Dade Transit. Commissioner Higgins is a firm believer in the transformative power of public transit when it comes to connecting people to better-paying jobs and educational opportunities. She recognizes that access to reliable and efficient transportation is not just a matter of convenience but a critical factor in improving the quality of life and economic prospects for Miami-Dade residents.
“It is with great pride that we congratulate Eileen on this well-deserved recognition,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Her tireless work is reflective of her deep passion for our community, and her leadership is helping shape the future of transportation and mobility in Miami-Dade County.”
“Commissioner Higgins has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to advancing public transit in our community,” added DTPW Director and CEO Eulois Cleckley. “Her steadfast advocacy for sustainable and accessible transportation solutions highlights her as a champion in this field. Her vision and character are shaping what the future of transportation leadership should look like, and her achievements fill us with immense pride. I am especially grateful for her support of our employees who strive to deliver service excellence every day.”