MARTA announces plans to improve customer services

MARTA named a new executive to oversee customer service and announced the formation of a rider's advisory council.

MARTA named a new executive to oversee customer service and announced the formation of a rider's advisory council.

MARTA has named a new executive to oversee its efforts to improve customer service.

CEO Jeffrey Parker on Friday also announced the formation of a new rider's advisory council to ensure customers have a say in the agency's operations and capital programs. The announcements come more than a year after Parker said he planned to make improving customer service a priority.

Parker announced that Rhonda Allen will be the agency's first "chief customer experience officer." She has been with MARTA for 20 years, most recently overseeing the agency's plans for Super Bowl LIII.

In her new job, Allen will report directly to Parker. Her first job will be to establish the rider advisory council, a group of 25 customers from diverse backgrounds who live or work in MARTA's service area. The council will meet monthly beginning in May, and it will offer input on topics like the design of new rail cars, bus stop amenities and communication with riders.

The agency is seeking applicants for the council. To apply or for more information, visit www.itsmarta.com/rac. Applications also are available at the customer information booth at Five Points Station and at MARTA Headquarters, 2424 Piedmont Road NE, Atlanta.