November 26, 2023 - TRA Newswire - 

Gary Thomas, the former President and Executive Director of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), and current Transit & Rail Market Director at Lochner, was inducted into the esteemed Texas Transportation Hall of Honor this month.

The honor, established by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of transportation in Texas through their dedication, vision, and leadership. Last year Thomas was inducted into the American Public Transportation Association's Hall of Fame.

Under his guidance, DART, which serves the North Texas and Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan areas, has flourished as one of the nation's most innovative and efficient public transportation systems. His 20 years of visionary leadership transformed the agency into a model for sustainable urban mobility, promoting economic development, enhancing accessibility, and reducing environmental impacts. 

In response to the announcement of his induction, Thomas expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute and to join the ranks of esteemed individuals who have contributed to the advancement of transportation in our great state. I have been fortunate to work alongside a dedicated team at DART, as well as countless partners, who share a vision for a more accessible and interconnected Texas."

Recounting the many accomplishments over the span of Thomas' career were friends and colleagues. Tim McKay, Jacobs Senior Program Manager; Pamela Dunlop Gates, DART Board of Directors, 2007-2017; and Paul Skoutelas, American Public Transportation Association President and CEO. In turn, Thomas took the opportunity to acknowledge, person by person, everyone in attendance, thanking them for the influence they had on his personal and professional life.

Thomas was a speaker at the 1st annual Southwestern Rail Conference, hosted by Texas Rail Advocates, and at many subsequent conferences. He spoke of the many advancements during his career at DART and well as its challenges.

Thomas joins the ranks of other prestigious Hall of Honor recipients including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lady Bird Johnson, and 48 other exceptional leaders who have improved the lives of countless Texans and set an example for the entire industry.

The Hall of Honor is located in the TTI headquarters at the Texas A&M-RELLIS campus in Bryan, Texas. The Hall of Honor is overseen by a five-member board comprised of senior transportation professionals with knowledge of the historical development of the transportation system in the state. Each individual inducted into the Hall of Honor is recognized by a plaque on permanent display.