HRT’s Townes chosen as APTA chairman

Michael S. Townes, president and CEO of Hampton Roads Transit, was chosen as APTA’s new chairman. 

The “exchanging of the gavel” ceremony took place between outgoing chair Howard Silver and Townes during the opening session of APTA’s annual meeting on Oct. 8. Townes was elected as APTA’s first vice chair last year. He is the first president of a transit authority in Hampton Roads to step into the chairman role since the organization began in 1882.  

"I look forward to playing a leadership role as APTA takes the lead in advocating for improved public transportation in the United States," said Townes.