Press Release
For Immediate Release
March 3, 2026
Contact
Jeffrey Pfeifer
Manager of Public Affairs and Community Engagement
(734) 973-6500
JApfeifer@TheRide.org
ANN ARBOR, MI – The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) is proud to announce that it has won first place in the Comprehensive Ridership Campaign category of the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) AdWheel Awards, a national competition recognizing excellence in public transportation marketing, communications, and outreach.
The AdWheel Awards honor public transportation agencies for creative and effective marketing efforts that increase ridership, improve public awareness, and strengthen connections with the communities they serve. TheRide received first place recognition for its innovative and impactful Ridership Campaign against other transit agencies of similar size from across the country.
“This national recognition is a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and dedication of our team,” said Jeff Pfeifer, Public Affairs and Engagement Manager at TheRide. “Winning first place in the AdWheel Awards highlights TheRide’s commitment to engaging our community in meaningful ways and promoting sustainable transportation options throughout Washtenaw County.”
TheRide’s Ridership Campaign launched across social media, print, and collateral channels, including exterior bus ads and billboards, with both static and video assets. The campaign reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to connect with riders and make public transportation accessible, relevant, and appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds. Community members can view the campaign on TheRide’s social media platforms @CatchTheRide.
The award was presented as part of APTA’s annual Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience Workshop in February.
The latest information on TheRide’s routes, schedules, and detours is available at 734-996-0400 and on TheRide.org.