L.A. Metro taps Denver transit chief to lead agency
Phil Washington replaces Art Leahy, who announced in January that he would step down in April.

Phil Washington

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County transportation officials on Thursday approved hiring Phillip Washington, Denver Regional Transportation District chief as the next head of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro),, the Los Angeles Times reported.
RELATED:Q&A with Denver RTD's Phil Washington
Choosing Washington capped a two-month search for a replacement for Arthur Leahy, who announced in January that he would step down in April after six years as chief executive, according to the Times report.
RELATED:L.A. Metro CEO to leave agency in April
Washington, who worked for the Denver transit agency for 16 years and served as CEO for the past six years, is credited with completing the $2.2 billion Eagle P3 project, a $2.2 billion public-private partnership, that built the RTD’s East Rail Line, a commuter rail from Denver International Airport to downtown Denver.
For the full story, click here.
More Management

Turn Transit Data Into Action
Discover how leading agencies are using connected technology to gain real-time visibility across operations, improve service reliability, and reduce disruptions.
Read More →
What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation
Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.
Read More →
USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules
New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.
Read More →
Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline
The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.
Read More →
People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel
Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.
Read More →
FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects
The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure
The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.
Read More →