Alice Johnson

Metro Transit plays a critical role during major events. What goes into planning transit service for events that bring tens of thousands of people together, and what are the biggest challenges your team faces?

Metro Transit plays an essential role in the success of major events by helping reduce traffic congestion, move large crowds efficiently, and provide an affordable, convenient way for people to get to and from the event. Planning for these events is a highly collaborative effort that often begins months—or even a year—in advance. Teams across the organization work together to coordinate service levels, operations, customer communications, and marketing to ensure we can safely and reliably meet increased demand. One of our biggest challenges is anticipating ridership and adjusting service to accommodate large crowds while continuing to provide reliable transit for our regular customers. Effective planning, clear communication, and close coordination with event organizers are all key to delivering a positive experience.

Large events are important not only for entertainment but also for the region's economy and community. How does Metro Transit help ensure these events are accessible, and why is reliable public transportation such an important part of their success?

Many of our region's stadiums and event venues are located along the METRO Blue or Green Line or are served by nearby bus routes, so taking transit is often one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to an event. For larger events, we may add service, increase the frequency of trains and buses, and promote park-and-ride options to help people get to and from downtown without the hassle of traffic or parking.

At the same time, we know not everyone on our system is heading to the event. We're also serving people commuting to work, running errands, or getting to other destinations. That's why we spend so much time planning ahead and communicating with event attendees, visitors, and our regular riders so everyone knows what to expect. Every major event also gives us an opportunity to learn, improve our operations, and build on what works, which ultimately benefits all of our riders.

Looking at your own career, what drew you to Metro Transit, and what experiences have shaped the way you approach transportation planning and public service today?

I grew up in Minnesota and when I was in college the METRO Green Line was being built. This created new opportunities as a student on campus to include the light rail in events I planned, one being the Gopher Adventure Race. When I graduated, I continued my event planning career and traveled most weeks. Almost four years ago, I wanted a career change and I found Metro Transit was hiring an event-focused marketing position which would allow me to continue doing what I love - planning events - and also coordinating campaigns that impact the community in important work, that was very important to me.

Do you have a favorite sports team, and what draws you to them?

I love attending so many sporting team home games with my family – from football, to soccer, to hockey and gymnastics, but being a University of Minnesota alumni, I love bringing my children to campus in our matching Gopheralls.

Do you have children? If so, are they involved in sports, and what types of activities do they enjoy?

I have an 8-year-old son, who loves playing hockey and flag football and a 7-year-old daughter, who excels in gymnastics and dance.

If you could meet any athlete, past or present, who would it be and why?

Travis Kelce- in hopes his wife also shows up. 😊

What is your favorite sports moment, whether as a spectator or participant?

November 9th, 2019 - Gophers vs Penn State Football Game. First time ever I got to “rush the field”.

What motivated you to become a member of the MNSE Champions Council?

As one of the founding members, I knew when Minnesota Sports and Events invited Metro Transit to join the Champions Council that it was a great opportunity to be part of the conversations and planning for the incredible large-scale events coming to our region. MNSE has been a fantastic partner to work with, and I look forward to continuing to grow our partnership and finding new ways Metro Transit can help support future events and create a great experience for everyone attending.