The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) announced its GM Mark Huffer will leave his post effective Aug. 22.

Huffer has served as GM since 2000 and positioned the agency to begin the implementation of an organization-wide restructuring designed to emphasize its capabilities and technical expertise to plan and manage regional projects.

Huffer said that with the reorganization complete, the timing was right for him to pass the mantle to new leadership at KCATA.

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“This is the right time for both me and the authority,” said Huffer. “KCATA is well positioned for the future, and I have no doubt that it will continue to thrive. It is rare for a transit CEO to stay at the same agency for 14 years. One of the highlights for me has been the genuine honor of working with the great employees at KCATA.”

Under Huffer’s leadership, KCATA has seen many innovations including MAX Bus Rapid Transit on Troost Ave. and Main Street, construction of a childcare/transit center at 39th & Troost, real-time passenger information at over 150 stop locations, passage of an additional 3/8-cent sales tax to support KCATA operations and conversion of the diesel fleet to compressed natural gas.

Sam Desue, the current VP, operations/COO, will serve as interim GM.