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Austin Appoints New Chief of Transit Police, Enhancing Safety

Public transportation scene with a police presence in an urban setting

Austin, TX, January 17, 2026

RenEarl Bowie has been appointed as the chief of the CapMetro Transit Police Department in Austin, TX. With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, his leadership aims to enhance safety and engage the community throughout the transit system. This change reflects a national trend in strengthening public safety and improving community well-being, offering opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive amidst increased safety efforts.

People on the Move: January 2026

Austin, TX – In a time of constant evolution within the local business and transit landscape, the recent appointment of RenEarl Bowie as chief of the CapMetro Transit Police Department marks a significant step towards enhancing public safety in Austin’s transit system. Bowie, who brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience, aims to foster a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for all commuters. His leadership will undoubtedly bolster community trust and engagement, key components in promoting the resilience and long-term success of local initiatives.

This development occurs alongside similar appointments across the nation, demonstrating a trend towards strengthening public service and improving community well-being within various cities. Entrepreneurs and business leaders in Austin are encouraged to take notice; local safety improvements can lead to greater investments and innovations, directly impacting the economy in a positive manner. The commitment to effective management and community-oriented strategies heralds a promising future for the CapMetro service and the local workforce.

Cincinnati Metro Welcomes New Procurement Leader

Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Metro has made an important strategic decision by appointing Jason Roe as director of procurement. Roe will oversee an impressive $220 million annual capital and operating budget. His extensive 25-year experience in the transit industry and active involvement in national transportation committees signify that he is well-equipped to guide important financial decisions that could enhance service delivery and operational efficiency across the metro system.

Dallas Strengthens Shuttle Operations with New Executives

Dallas, TX – MV Transportation is responding to increasing demand for shuttle services by appointing Jeremy Brown and Sean Huonker as vice presidents. This strategic move is essential for adapting their business model to the evolving needs of transportation. Brown, with a background in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and Huonker, with over ten years of experience in transportation sales and operations, will work to enhance service offerings, which may ultimately stimulate economic growth in the region.

National Rail Practice Enhancements with HDR

Philadelphia, PA – Anna Lynn Smith’s return to HDR as the leader of its intercity and high-speed rail practice outlines a strong commitment to multimodal infrastructure development. Smith’s proven track record at Amtrak and extensive experience in transportation-related strategy will likely strengthen HDR’s position in this competitive field, catalyzing advancements in rail infrastructure throughout the United States and Canada.

TARTA Announces Significant Promotions

Toledo, OH – The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) is undergoing a transformation of its leadership with key promotions aimed at enhancing customer experience and mobility. Bailey has been appointed as chief customer experience and mobility officer, reflecting TARTA’s commitment to innovation and improving rider satisfaction. Alongside Bailey, Gettum has been promoted to chief of staff, highlighting the agency’s focus on leadership development and community outreach programs. These changes highlight TARTA’s initiative to improve service offerings while fostering stronger connections with the community.

Conclusion

The recent appointments and promotions within the transit authorities across various cities illustrate a commitment to both safety and innovation in public transportation. For entrepreneurs and local businesses in Austin, these changes represent opportunities to capitalize on a more secure and efficiently operating transit system. As local leaders focus on improving infrastructure and customer engagement, the potential for increased investment and economic growth in Austin becomes more promising. It is a time for the community to rally together in support of these initiatives and foster a thriving local economy.

FAQ

Who is the new director of procurement at Cincinnati Metro?

Jason Roe has been appointed as the new director of procurement at Cincinnati Metro, overseeing the organization’s $220 million annual capital and operating budget.

What are the new roles of Jeremy Brown and Sean Huonker at MV Transportation?

Jeremy Brown and Sean Huonker have been appointed as vice presidents of shuttle services at MV Transportation, aiming to strengthen and expand the company’s shuttle service offerings nationwide.

Who is the new chief of the CapMetro Transit Police Department?

RenEarl Bowie has been sworn in as the chief of the CapMetro Transit Police Department, focusing on providing a safe and welcoming environment and strong community engagement.

What is Anna Lynn Smith’s new role at HDR?

Anna Lynn Smith has rejoined HDR to lead its intercity and high-speed rail practice, overseeing strategy, client engagement, and market positioning in the U.S. and Canada.

Who is the new chief customer experience and mobility officer at TARTA?

Bailey has been promoted to chief customer experience and mobility officer at TARTA, focusing on enhancing customer satisfaction and mobility services.

City Organization New Appointment Role Previous Experience
Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati Metro Jason Roe Director of Procurement Director of Infrastructure and Development Programming at Metro; various leadership roles in procurement, inventory management, quality assurance, and fleet maintenance
Dallas, TX MV Transportation Jeremy Brown Vice President of Shuttle Services Director of Business Development at Voltera Power; executive leadership positions overseeing large-scale shuttle operations in Las Vegas and Houston
Dallas, TX MV Transportation Sean Huonker Vice President of Shuttle Services Over a decade of experience in transportation sales, operations, and customer relationship management across government, municipal, and private sectors
Austin, TX CapMetro RenEarl Bowie Chief of the CapMetro Transit Police Department Over 30 years in law enforcement, including service with the Texas Department of Public Safety and as Captain of CapMetro’s Transit Police
Philadelphia, PA HDR Anna Lynn Smith Leader of Intercity and High-Speed Rail Practice Vice President of Planning and Strategy at Amtrak; over 30 years of experience in multimodal infrastructure strategy
Toledo, OH TARTA Bailey Chief Customer Experience and Mobility Officer Director of Transit Operations at the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority; Manager of Planning and Service Development for Dayton RTA
Toledo, OH TARTA Gettum Chief of Staff Customer Care Manager at TARTA; developed the Hub of Hope outreach program; managed on-demand microtransit service
Toledo, OH TARTA Melden Overseer of Communications, Marketing, Government Relations, and Community Relations Led communications, marketing, government relations, and community relations efforts at TARTA

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STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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