Welcome to the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo!
Join the California Transit Association in Monterey, California from October 28–30, 2026, for the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.
Hosted in partnership with Monterey Salinas Transit, this multi-day event will take place at the Portola Hotel & Spa and adjacent Monterey Conference Center, bringing together transit leaders, agency staff, and industry partners from across the state.
Attendees can expect content-rich general sessions and breakouts, an interactive Expo Hall, technical tours, and valuable networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and share best practices across California’s transit community. The conference offers a dynamic space to explore innovative solutions, engage with peers, and gain insights into the issues shaping the future of public transportation.
Register today, and join us in Monterey!
At a Glance
- Who: Agency leaders, transit professionals, operations staff, industry partners, and vendors
- What: In-person conference featuring general sessions, breakout sessions, an exhibit hall, and networking events
- When: October 28–30, 2026
- Where: Monterey, California
Timely Topics
Explore the latest trends and pressing issues impacting California transit agencies.
Meaningful Connections
Build relationships with peers, industry leaders, and business partners from across the state.
Innovative Solutions
Discover tools, products, and services designed to strengthen and support transit operations.
Program Details
Conference programming will feature educational sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and exhibits designed for transit professionals and stakeholders.
Photo Highlights
Browse highlights from CTA’s 2025 Fall Conference & Expo. To browse photos, click here.
Agenda
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Full conference agenda details will go here.
Speakers
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I attend the California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo?
Join the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo to hear directly from industry leaders, expand your professional network, and learn more about innovative approaches to today’s most pressing transit challenges. Guided by the conference theme of Connecting Us, the event ensures that transit professionals of all levels have a space to gather, network, and learn.
Who can attend the conference?
The 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo brings together public and private sector transportation professionals from throughout California and the country to engage in timely discussions aligned with the most pressing issues in transit.
The conference is open to both members and non-members and is designed for a broad audience, including:
- Transit and transportation professionals across all sectors, disciplines, and career stages
- Public- and private-sector leaders, consultants, and industry partners
- Individuals interested in learning more about the California Transit Association or considering membership
- Students and emerging professionals pursuing or exploring careers in transit, engineering, planning, policy, and related fields
Whether you are a seasoned leader, new to the industry, or exploring a future in transportation, the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo offers education, networking, and collaboration opportunities for all attendees.
Where is the event being held?
The 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo is being held at:
The Portola Hotel & Spa and Monterey Convention Center
Two Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940
How much is registration?
Registration rates are available on the California Transit Association’s Fall Conference website linked here.
What is included in my full conference registration fee?
Conference registration includes access to all conference programming and select networking events, providing a comprehensive professional development experience.
- Admission to the Welcome Reception
- Access to all Plenary Sessions
- Access to all Keynote Sessions
- Full access to the Expo Hall
- Admission to the Thursday Evening Offsite Reception
What are the onsite registration hours?
- Wednesday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Who should I contact about exhibitor information?
See the Exhibits page linked here for more information. For more information on becoming a sponsor or exhibitor, please contact Rob Finley at rob@caltransit.org.
Event Policies
Do we have any links to policies we want to add here?
Refunds and Cancellations
All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to xxxx. Submitted registration cancellation requests will be refunded, less a 25% fee. Registration refund requests will be processed in 7–10 business days.
The cancellation deadline is xxxx, 2026. Refund requests received after this date will not be honored.
Registration no-shows will NOT be refunded, including individuals who attend the conference and later decide not to participate or request a refund.
Location & Venue
The 2026 California Transit Association’s 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo will be held at The Portola Hotel & Spa and Monterey Conference Center, located at:
Two Portola Plaza
Monterey, CA 93940
All conference sessions, keynote presentations, and the Small Operators Awards will take place at the Portola Hotel & Spa and adjacent Monterey Convention Center, providing a centralized and seamless experience for attendees.
Host & Local Acknowledgment
The conference is presented by The California Transit Association, with special recognition of Monterey Salinas Transit (MST) as our host agency. Their conference leadership and support play an important role in planning and event logistics for visitors to Monterey and showcasing the region’s vibrant transit community.
Program Planning Committee
The Conference Program and Planning Committee is responsible for shaping a comprehensive, relevant, and educational experience for the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo. The committee has finalized a program designed to address timely issues in four core areas: (highlight tracks by name here).
Meals & Networking Functions
The following meals and gatherings are included with conference registration:
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
- Expo Welcome Reception | xxxxx(time) PT
Thursday, October 29, 2026
- Breakfast | 7:00 – 8:30 AM PT
- Lunch | 12:00 PM PT
Friday, October 30, 2026
- Breakfast | 7:00 – 8:30 AM PT
Additional networking opportunities include:
- (what are we calling offsite reception?)
- Small Operators Awards Luncheon – Ticket not included with conference registration
- Tickets for the Awards Luncheon are available via registration as an add-on
Expo Hall
The Expo Hall will serve as a central gathering place throughout the conference, offering opportunities to connect with industry partners, explore innovative technology, and engage with peers.
Technical Tours
Optional conference add-ons will be available and released in phases leading to the event. These include:
- Technical tours
- Professional development offerings
Attendees are encouraged to check the conference website regularly for updates and registration availability.
Volunteer Opportunities
A limited number of student volunteer roles and professional volunteer opportunities will be available through Monterey Salinas Transit. Volunteer positions support various conference activities and provide a behind-the-scenes view of conference operations. For additional information on volunteering contact: xxx
Contact Information
For general conference questions, please contact:
info@caltransit.org
Additional details and updates will continue to be added as the conference approaches. We look forward to welcoming you to Monterey for three days of learning and collaboration at the 61st Annual Fall Conference & Expo.
App Information
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Hotel
The conference will be held at the Portola Hotel & Spa, which is conveniently connected to the Monterey Conference Center.
Additional hotel and accommodation details will be provided as they become available. Please check back for updates.
Nearby Airports
Monterey is accessible via several regional and international airports:
- Monterey Regional Airport (MRY): Located approximately 10 minutes from the conference venue. While it is the most convenient option, it is a smaller regional airport with limited airline service and fewer direct flight options.
- San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC): Located approximately 75 miles from Monterey, about 1.5–2 hours by car, and offers a wide range of domestic flights. It is the most commonly used airport for visitors.
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Located approximately 110 miles from Monterey, about 2–2.5 hours by car. SFO provides extensive domestic and international flight options.
- Oakland International Airport (OAK): Located approximately 105 miles from Monterey, about 2–2.5 hours by car. OAK offers a convenient alternative with a variety of domestic routes.
Ground Transportation
Monterey is accessible from surrounding airports through several transportation options:
- Transit: Local bus service is provided by Monterey-Salinas Transit, offering routes throughout Monterey and surrounding communities.
- Shuttle Service: Shared airport shuttle service is available between SFO, SJC, and Monterey through providers such as Groome Transportation. Service operates daily; advance reservations are recommended.
- Rental Cars: Available at all major airports and recommended for flexibility, especially for exploring the Central Coast.
- Rideshare & Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are widely available.
Driving to Monterey
Monterey is located on California’s Central Coast, approximately 10 minutes from Monterey Regional Airport, 1 hour from San Jose, 2 hours from San Francisco, 3 hours from Sacramento, and 5 hours from Los Angeles.
Parking
Parking is available within walking distance of the Monterey Conference Center and surrounding downtown area.
- Downtown Parking Structures: Two City of Monterey garages are located approximately one block from the Conference Center: Downtown East Garage, located at Washington & Tyler Streets, and Downtown West Garage, located at Franklin Street & Tyler Street. Both structures offer the first hour free, then $1.00 per 30 minutes or fraction thereof, with a daily maximum of $12.00. Maximum vehicle height is 6 feet 8 inches and rates reset at midnight.
- Hotel Parking: Valet and self-parking options are available at the Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay and nearby hotels. Rates vary by property and may include in/out privileges for overnight guests.
- Street Parking: Metered parking is available throughout downtown Monterey on a first-come, first-served basis. Time limits and rates vary by location.
- Additional Parking: Additional parking is available at nearby public lots and garages within a short walking distance of the venue. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking, particularly during peak conference hours.
Media Toolkit
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Prospectus
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Exhibitor Opportunities
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.
Small Operators Awards
Overview
The Small Operators Awards are presented annually during the California Transit Association Fall Conference & Expo, recognizing excellence, leadership, and innovation among California’s small transit operators. This event brings together transit professionals from smaller service areas to celebrate achievements that make a meaningful impact on their communities.
The awards are held in conjunction with a conference meal function (breakfast or lunch – details to be confirmed) and feature a keynote speaker, creating a dedicated space to honor outstanding contributions while fostering connection among peers across the industry.
Award Categories
The Small Operators Awards highlight individuals and agencies that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and service excellence across the transit industry. Award categories include:
- Transit Professional of the Year – Honors an individual who has demonstrated strong leadership and vision
- Transit Agency of the Year – Recognizes an agency program or service that reflects innovation, effective problem-solving, or a positive community impact
- Transit Innovation Award – Celebrates forward-thinking approaches and creative solutions in transit
- Distinguished Service Award – Acknowledges long-standing contributions and commitment to the industry
2024 Recipients
Transit Professional of the Year (formerly Transit Leadership Award)
2024 – Vanessa Rauschenberger, Gold Coast Transit Authority
Transit Agency of the Year (formerly Transit Excellence Award)
2024 – Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority
Transit Innovation Award
2024 – City of Commerce Transit
Distinguished Service Award
2024 – Kate Miller, Napa Valley Transportation Authority
Registration & Tickets
The Small Operators Awards event is offered as a separate conference function. Additional details, including ticket availability, pricing, and how to register, will be provided as they become available.