Kevin Dowling received the Edward J. Dowling Distinguished Service Award.

Kevin Dowling dedicated 21 years to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), where he significantly impacted public transit initiatives across various provincial governments. He actively engaged with transit system members to gather feedback and share insights

for program improvement. Additionally, he advised the Ontario Public Transit Association (OPTA) board, providing updates on MTO initiatives.

Kevin was instrumental in developing and improving the Provincial Gas Tax for Transit program, known for its flexibility. He also contributed to

the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act standards and the Safe Restart Program during the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped maintain transit operations during ridership declines.

In his later years, Kevin was involved in launching One Fare across the Greater Toronto Area and the Ontario Bus Replacement Program, which modernized transit fleets and introduced accessible buses.

His collaborative approach and willingness to assist transit managers earned him widespread respect. Kevin’s influence on funding programs and relationships with transit systems has left a lasting impact on Ontario’s public transit landscape, fostering growth and modernization that benefit communities throughout the province.

Upon his retirement, transit system managers expressed their gratitude, recognizing Kevin as the go-to person at MTO for all transit-related matters.