GCRTA Board of Trustees awards contract extension to CEO and GM India L. Birdsong Terry

July 26, 2023
Terry’s new contract keeps her as GCRTA CEO and GM through 2027.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) Board of Trustees have approved a new contract for GCRTA CEO and General Manager India L. Birdsong Terry. The contract continues Terry’s employment as GCRTA’s CEO and general manager through Dec. 31, 2027. She has led the agency since Sept. 16, 2019.

“After a lengthy and thorough study of organizations similar to GCRTA nationwide, the GCRTA Board of Trustees are very pleased to have reached an agreement that keeps Mrs. Terry with GCRTA as our general manger and chief executive officer, “said GCRTA Board Trustee, Compensation Committee Chair, Mayor of city of Shaker Heights, David E. Weiss. “Her vision, combined with extensive industry knowledge, ability to attract funding and dedication make her the perfect choice to lead GCRTA in becoming one of the premier public transportation agencies nationally.”

"I am delighted to continue serving the GCRTA and Greater Cleveland, as our agency continues to set the bar regarding innovative mobility solutions and community connections,” Terry said. “Service reliability and robust civic partnerships will remain crucial cornerstones of our success, in support of enhanced customer travel experience. I sincerely appreciate the support of our Board of Trustees, internal team and community partners, as we continue to strengthen our brand as a mobility pacesetter in the region."

In Cleveland, Ohio, Terry will continue to oversee more than 2,100 employees and a $292 million operating budget. She remains committed to transparent leadership, management accountability, sound financial oversight and connecting the community.

“Mrs. Terry is the leader who is taking this organization to new heights. She has the vision and skills that establish the best transit priorities for this community, enhance RTA’s strengths and create solutions to improve access and service,” said GCRTA Board President, Rev. Charles P. Lucas, Pastor Emeritus, St. James AME Church. “Our region is experiencing a renaissance, and I am delighted to have an experienced CEO who’s going to guide our public transit system into that future.”