MTA Announces Promotions at New York City Transit

Acting MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber appointed Craig Cipriano as the next interim president of New York City Transit and Demetrius Crichlow has been promoted by current interim president Sarah Feinberg to serve as senior VP of NYCT’s department of subways.

Cipriano has been president of MTA Bus Company and senior VP of NYCT’s department of buses since 2019. Crichlow became acting executive VP of NYCT’s subways division earlier this year.

Lieber has served as chief development officer and president of MTA Construction & Development since 2017. 

“The pandemic revealed how important it is to have continuity and seasoned leaders at the MTA managing the daily challenges of our system,” said acting MTA chairman and CEO Janno Lieber. “Craig and Demetrius exemplify the very best of what NYCT has to offer. I know I will rely on them immensely as we continue the critical work of modernizing mass transit in the years ahead.”

Cipriano has more than 30 years of public transit experience at the MTA. 

“Growing up in Brooklyn I knew firsthand how important the B42 bus and L train were to the people in my neighborhood, but I never dreamed I would one day have the honor of running New York City’s world class transit system,” said incoming interim NYCT president Craig Cipriano. “I am excited to return to my subway roots where I began and lead the agency at this critical juncture as we work to bring ridership back and support the city’s recovery — building upon the improvements we have already made.”

Crichlow started his career with the MTA in 1997 as an assistant signal maintainer at the Long Island Railroad.

“I strongly believe that the subway system is a powerful force for equity in New York City and I am grateful for the opportunity to help move the department forward alongside Craig and Janno,” said newly appointed senior VP for subways Demetrius Crichlow. “The men and women who work for the Department of Subways are dedicated, committed professionals with real expertise and I am eager to work hand-in-hand with them."

Cipriano executed the successful Staten Island Express Bus Network redesign and developed the agency’s plan to transition to a zero-emissions bus fleet by 2040. Crichlow transferred to MTA headquarters in 2006 and became special assistant for operations.

“Craig and Demetrius have the strong leadership skills and unmatched experience to bring continued stability to the daily operations of our subways and buses,” said current interim NYCT president Sarah Feinberg. “New Yorkers and the transit system are in great hands.”