Hear Directly from FTA on Funding, Safety, Transit-Oriented Development and More at Leadership Lab

BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. — The South West Transit Association (SWTA) is excited to announce that Carrie Butler, Regional Administrator for Region 7 of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), will join the speaker lineup for the inaugural SWTA Summer Leadership Lab, September 13–15, 2026, in Breckenridge, Colorado. 

Speaker confirmations - FTA confirmed attendance

Butler will present during Monday’s Leadership Lab programming, bringing attendees timely information directly from FTA on several issues currently impacting public transit agencies.

Her presentation will include updates and discussion surrounding transit-friendly Requests for Information (RFI), the FY 2026 Bus and Bus Facilities Notice of Funding Opportunity, FTA’s transit-oriented development efforts, and a new online data tool focused on public transit safety. 

Speaker confirmations - FTA confirmed attendance

The timing of the Bus and Bus Facilities discussion is especially valuable for transit agencies, with the current funding opportunity carrying a September 21 application deadline. Leadership Lab attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from FTA just days before applications are due. 

Speaker confirmations - FTA confirmed attendance

Butler’s participation adds an important federal perspective to Monday’s Leadership Lab programming and reflects SWTA’s commitment to connecting members with the leaders, information, resources and conversations shaping public transit today.

The inaugural SWTA Summer Leadership Lab is designed to go beyond traditional conference education with timely industry discussions, interactive learning and practical information attendees can take directly back to their agencies.

Leadership Lab begins Sunday evening with the Welcome Reception. Monday features federal, legal, legislative and regulatory programming, followed Tuesday by concurrent Marketing & Communications and Mobility Management learning experiences.

Attendees are also encouraged to extend their stay for the CASTA Fall Conference & EXPO and State Partnerships Conference, creating an expanded week of education, networking and industry engagement in Breckenridge.

SWTA Summer Leadership Lab 2026

 September 13–15, 2026

 Breckenridge, Colorado

Registration is open now. Join us in Breckenridge and hear directly from FTA while connecting, learning and collaborating with public transit professionals from across the region.

REGISTER TODAY:

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/yncgyc5

VIEW THE LATEST AGENDA:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zp7cWCrlfusT8FwZ-2PTOsDx5aR9-MPi/view

About SWTA

The South West Transit Association (SWTA) serves public transit providers, leaders and partners across the South West region by advancing education, advocacy, collaboration and innovation within public transit