Jennifer Garrity joined MetroLINK in Rock Island, Ilinois, in 1999 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Harding University. She quickly moved through the organization and has been in her current role as manager of administration since 2005.
Garrity’s daily duties include managing the strategic affairs of the organization and the administrative staff, as well as providing daily support in implementing the vision and direction for the organization. She has been instrumental in creating a culture that embraces innovation and has developed strong personal relationships with staff and the board of trustees, and has incorporated a team environment to drive initiatives forward.
Garrity serves as the public relations and marketing expert of MetroLINK, and has spearheaded a number of marketing campaigns recognized nationally by the American Public Transportation Association, as well as locally. Most significantly she has managed MetroLINK’s long-term commitment to sustainability, which has included campaigns highlighting sustainable practices; local editorial pieces and media pieces; the overhaul of a logo and name change of the organization; and the presentation of the fleet of vehicles, facilities and employees.
Garrity also serves as the media liaison, and has consistently generated a number of positive local media pieces in print and television, as well as nationally through publications in “Mass Transit,” “Green Building Designs” and “Passenger Transport.”
Most recently Garrity was part of the project team tasked with the construction and implementation of MetroLINK’s new $40 million Operations and Maintenance Center, which just recently opened in April of this year. She assisted in securing funding and managed MetroLINK’s $10 million bond issuance associated with that project. She also managed the DBE goal setting and the significant outreach activities promoting contracting opportunities, which resulted in participation that far exceeded the overall goal.
Garrity oversaw a successful transition of moving operators and support staff from one facility to the next. Her ideas and commitment to the organization has allowed MetroLINK to achieve the American Public Transportation Association’s “Outstanding Public Transportation System of the Year” award in 2012, as well as a number of community awards throughout the past several years.
She has been instrumental in the implementation of a number of strategic goals including a college and university unlimited ride program, talent and workforce development opportunities, and asset improvements. She has been named a Leader Under 40 in the Quad Cities region, and was a graduate of the Leadership APTA class in 2006. Her community involvement has included board member for River Action, board member for Moline Centre Partners, chairman of the Young Professional Network of the Quad Cities, and a member of the APTA Marketing and Communications Committee. She earned her Master of Business Administration in 2008, from Harding University.
“I am particularly lucky to be a part of such a gifted team of coworkers who are truly passionate about we do. We are all unique and have different skillsets and talents that have allowed us to continually reach and exceed our expectations. It’s also a great time to be involved in transit, as we are really shaping the way communities function and succeed. It’s a good feeling to know you are a key part of a movement that is changing the way we live in a positive way.”
“Here in the Quad Cities, I would like to see Metro continue to expand its role as an economic driver through the incorporation of passenger and commuter rail, as well as continuing to build a holistic transportation network that incorporates all modes of travel. We want to be a No. one reason why millenials choose to live, work and play in the Quad Cities.”
