WestCAT Agency Receives Statewide Transit Honor

The transit agency that runs buses around Pinole and Hercules — with connections to Martinez — has won a statewide award among its California transportation association.

The Western Contra Costa Transit Authority has been chosen the "Outstanding Transportation Agency" by the California Association for Coordinated Transportation.

WestCAT General Manager Charles Anderson received the award during a conference at Newport Beach during the week of of April 25, according to a WestCAT news release.

"The association is the largest state transit association in the United States, with nearly 300 members dedicated to promoting professional excellence, stimulating ideas and advocating for effective community transportation," according to the release. "Its members include Public Transit Operators, Non-Profit Transportation and Human Service Agencies, Local or Regional Government Agencies, State and Federal Agencies, Universities and Colleges, Associations, and Tribal Transportation providers."

Besides the award, WestCAT also is celebrating two milestone anniversaries this year. Anderson is celebrating his 25th anniversary at the agency, and WestCAT is celebrating its 35th anniversary.

"WestCAT has a very loyal and stable workforce, 43 of 63 drivers have over 5 years seniority, 1 driver over 30 years seniority, 5 drivers over 20 years seniority, and 18 drivers over 10 years seniority," according to the release. "Also, WestCAT's contractor, MV Transportation's Manager, Assistant Manager and payroll clerk each have 25+ years seniority. The loyalty and stability of the WestCAT workforce (the drivers, dispatchers, mechanics, utility crew and administrative staff) is just a part of what has made WestCAT what it is today. The support of WestCAT's peers, and the dedication and commitment of the WestCAT Board of Directors and strong leadership of its General Manager have been vital to the survival of the agency. However, most importantly the loyal support and patronage of WestCAT's passengers and the community is what has really kept it going strong for all of these years."

The Western Contra Costa Transit Authority (WCCTA) was established in 1977 as a Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement between Contra Costa County and the cities of Hercules and Pinole. It's purpose is owning, operating and administrating a public transportation system serving the area between the Richmond-El Sobrante border to the west and the Carquinez Bridge to the east, along with dial-a-ride and paratransit services.

WestCAT fixed routes include local service and connections to AC Transit buses, BART stations in El Cerrito and Richmond and to Martinez. It also runs buses to the Transbay Terminal in San Francisco.

WestCAT is governed by a seven-member board of directors and is supported by professional staff. The cities of Pinole and Hercules are represented on the board by two members, while the unincorporated communities of Crockett and Rodeo, each have one representative. Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills and Bayview have one joint representative.

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