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Tennessee Public Transportation Association
Chooses Norris as Legislator of the Year CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. --- State Senator Mark Norris (R-Collierville) has been recognized by the Tennessee Public Transportation Association (TPTA) as their 2006 Legislator of the Year. The award was presented during the organization’s meeting in Chattanooga on November 16. “We were pleased to honor Senator Norris for his leadership efforts supporting public transportation in all 95 Tennessee counties,” TPTA President Jimmy Smith said. “He has made public transportation a priority and understands the issues and opportunities facing this resource.” TPTA’s mission is the advancement and expansion of public transportation services across Tennessee. Currently, it consists of 28 member organizations who, combined, carry 31,000,000 passengers each year. They operate 1,700 vehicles through the state and employ 2,500 people. Norris thanked the Association and said he accepted the recognition "on behalf of all public servants who appreciate what public transit means to our state and the entire nation." Norris is the second state legislator to receive the award. Representative Bill Harmon (D-Dunlap) received the award in 2005. "The Tennessee Public Transportation Association plays a key role in both effectively managing and advocating for public transportation," Norris said. "Their input and innovation is essential in providing access to jobs and relieving congestion." Norris, Chairman of the Senate Transportation and Safety Committee, led efforts to restore transportation funding slated for cuts by the State earlier this year. He also chairs the Economic Development, Transportation and Cultural Affairs Committee of the 16-state Southern Legislative Conference. The day before receiving the award, Norris addressed the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission in Memphis. Norris represents Shelby, Tipton, Lauderdale and Dyer counties. |
