JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (April 26, 2024) — The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) received the StormReady certification from the National Weather Service (NWS). This certification, achieved by the JTA Safety & Security department, makes JTA the second Florida organization to receive this designation, which recognizes organizations that are proactive in supporting communities during major storms.
“Being recognized as a StormReady agency is a testament to the proactive work done by the entire JTA team during hurricane season and beyond,” said JTA Chief Safety & Security Officer Chris Geraci. “Under the leadership of Mr. Ford and the Board of Directors, we’ve been able to invest in many safety, security, and emergency preparedness enhancement initiatives, with the goal of ensuring safety and security for patrons and employees alike.”
The program helps arm communities with the safety skills needed to save lives and property before, during, and after major hurricanes and other weather-related events.
To receive a StormReady certification, the NWS thoroughly reviews the organization’s emergency preparedness plans, training, and exercises. JTA passed its examination, meeting the following criteria from the NWS:
• Establishes a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center
• Has more than one way to receive severe weather warning and forecasts to alert the public
• Creates a system that monitors weather conditions locally
• Promotes the importance of public readiness through community seminars
• Develops a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes training severe weather spotters and holding emergency exercises
JTA’s Safety and Security department has established a stellar reputation over the years. JTA received the Gold Standard Award from the Transportation Security Administration in 2023 for the organization’s security and emergency preparedness elements such as security training, background check procedures, and drill and exercise programs.
###
About the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA)
Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is an independent state agency serving Jacksonville, Florida and Northeast Florida with multi-modal responsibilities. The JTA provides varied mass public transit services, and is a builder of roads, bridges and other infrastructure to enhance mobility in Jacksonville. Public transportation services include BRT and regular bus service, paratransit, the St. Johns River Ferry, Skyway APM, and other mobility and on-demand services in Duval, Clay, Baker, Nassau and St. Johns counties. To learn more, visit www.jtafla.com.