BART announces reorganization of communications functions
BART has announced a reorganization of its communication and spokesperson functions to provide more transparent and precise information about its operations. The need to provide comprehensive information on a wide range of functional areas within the organization, combined with the sheer volume of information of interest to the public, drove the decision to diversify the communications roles.
The restructured department now is now led by one Department Manager and two communications officers (CO). The two COs will share media response duties to ensure 24 hour coverage (after hours via pager.) The COs will work with subject matter experts in various departments to respond to media inquiries. In addition, BART is implementing a recommendation made by the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) as part of its extensive review of the BART Police Department to establish a Media Representative for the BART Police Department. The BART Police Department Media Representative will work with the Communications Officers to more effectively respond to all media requests for information on BART Police matters.
Jim Allison and Luna Salaver from the Communications Department will remain the key media contact points for BART and will share Communication Officer duties for the agency. Luna Salaver, who is a Public Information Officer on loan from Capital Corridor, will remain as a part time CO until the position is posted and filled.
Linton Johnson has been appointed to the position of Strategic Program Manager for External Affairs. He will work with BART departments to develop and implement large scale communications strategies for major District programs. Some of these programs include the planning and acquisition of a new rail car fleet for BART, a pilot project to place digital screens on station platforms to improve communication of important messages and public information, and the on-going roll out of the Clipper Card, among other initiatives.
Johnson, who has been on leave from the District for 12 weeks, will be dedicated fully to providing strategic support for the on-going communications surrounding these major projects.
As the re-structuring continues, BART will keep you informed of its progress to ensure your continued access to the correct sources for your information needs. We are committed to effective communication to support our operational goals and to meet our commitments to the Bay Area Community we serve.
Updated: 1:05 pm, November 14, 2011