“Bill Thomas successfully received unanimous support from the entire board,” said RTC Chairman Bob Lucey. “We had a strong candidate pool of well-qualified candidates, all of whom would have been a great leader for the RTC.”
Thomas replaces RTC's former Executive Director Lee Gibson, who retired December 2019 after more than ten years on the job. Among his achievements during his tenure, Gibson is credited with reducing the agency's operating cost by over 30 percent, while delivering the largest multimodal construction program in the agency's history.
Thomas has an extensive background in planning and development that he’s garnered through years of working in high level positions in both the public and private sector, according to his City of Reno bio.
As an Assistant City Manager, Thomas is responsible for oversight of the Community Development, Parks Recreation and Community Services, Public Works, Economic Development and Redevelopment functions of the City of Reno.
Before joining the City, Thomas operated his own planning consulting firm where he assisted both private and public entity clients. His position as the Director of Entitlements for a large west coast-based attached-home builder provided him with perspective on the private/public interactions that are such an important part of local government service. Thomas was also VP of a Nevada-based civil engineering firm where he gained experience in the land development industry.
The RTC Board gave legal counsel direction to begin negotiation of an employment agreement that will be brought to the RTC Board meeting on March 20, 2020.
“The RTC Board extends its appreciation to Amy Cummings who is serving as the RTC Interim Executive Director during the transition,” said Lucey.
The delivery marks the first car in a 374‑vehicle order and begins the arrival of a new generation of higher‑capacity, more reliable, and more comfortable trains for one of the country’s busiest commuter rail systems.
Metro launches a 24-month project to replace 3,700 bus stop signs, introducing improved visibility, QR-enabled rider info, and expanded amenities across Hamilton County.
BART recorded 5,403,140 exits in March, making it the highest monthly ridership since the pandemic and surpassing the previous high set in October 2025 (5,346,890 exits).
The station was rebuilt as part of SEPTA’s Station Accessibility Program, making it fully ADA accessible with new elevators, ramps, and high-level platforms.
The plan represents an increase of just 1.9% over the current year, and includes investments in new buses, more full-length fare gates, and other enhancements for customers.
The announcement highlights the long-standing partnership between the Class I railroad and the commuter rail system, dating back to Metra's creation in 1983.
In Part 1, Blandon shares his journey from the U.S. Marines to a leadership role in public transit, along with insights on mentorship and professional growth within the industry.
