Spokane Transit Authority Executive and Leadership Team

Karl Otterstrom, the Chief Executive Officer at Spokane Transit Authority, directs the overarching strategic vision for municipal transit services. Otterstrom manages the deployment of 147 buses across 40 fixed routes, ensuring alignment with regional mobility goals. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer shapes long-term infrastructure investments and service expansion plans. Karl Otterstrom monitors performance metrics to optimize transit efficiency and accessibility for the Washington community. This leadership role involves balancing public funding requirements with the operational demands of a complex transportation network. Through rigorous oversight of organizational policy, the Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards for safety and reliability. Otterstrom drives the implementation of mobility training initiatives, empowering seniors and individuals with disabilities to navigate the transit system with greater independence. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of public transit through sustainable planning and community-focused service delivery.

Lynda Warren, the Chief Financial Officer at Spokane Transit Authority, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the municipal corporation. Warren oversees all financial planning, revenue allocation, and capital expenditure reporting for the organization. By analyzing funding streams from local and state sources, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the stability of fixed-route bus services and paratransit operations. Lynda Warren collaborates with executive leadership to align financial resources with strategic growth objectives and infrastructure maintenance. This role involves rigorous auditing of operational costs to maximize the efficiency of the 147-bus fleet. Through precise fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of vanpool programs and mobility training services. Warren maintains transparency in financial reporting, providing the necessary data for informed decision-making by the Board. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer protects the long-term economic viability of the transit system while supporting the broader mission of providing accessible transportation to the public.

Kade Peterson, the Chief Information Officer at Spokane Transit Authority, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern transit operations. Peterson manages the integration of real-time tracking systems, passenger information platforms, and internal data networks. By modernizing the technological framework, the Chief Information Officer enhances the reliability of the 40 fixed routes and improves the user experience for transit riders. Kade Peterson coordinates with operational teams to implement secure communication protocols across the entire bus fleet. This leadership role involves overseeing cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive passenger data and organizational assets. Through the deployment of advanced scheduling software, the Chief Information Officer optimizes route planning and resource allocation. Peterson drives digital transformation initiatives that support the efficiency of paratransit services and vanpool coordination. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the technological backbone of the organization remains robust, scalable, and capable of meeting the evolving demands of the regional transportation network.

Frederick Nelson, the Chief Operations Officer at Spokane Transit Authority, directs the daily execution of transit services and fleet management. Nelson oversees the maintenance and deployment of 147 buses, ensuring consistent service delivery across all 40 fixed routes. By managing the workforce and operational logistics, the Chief Operations Officer maintains high standards for safety and punctuality. Frederick Nelson coordinates with the maintenance department to ensure the fleet remains in peak condition for daily operations. This role involves monitoring service performance and adjusting schedules to meet fluctuating passenger demand throughout the region. Through the oversight of paratransit and vanpool operations, the Chief Operations Officer ensures equitable access for all community members. Nelson collaborates with other executives to implement operational improvements that enhance transit reliability. Ultimately, the Chief Operations Officer drives the day-to-day success of the transit system, ensuring that the organization meets its commitment to providing dependable and accessible public transportation services.