METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

DeMartino to manage Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner rail service

The former San Joaquin RTD CEO is now managing director of the Los Angeles–San Diego–San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency.

January 27, 2020
DeMartino to manage Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner rail service

DonnaDeMartino

2 min to read


DonnaDeMartino

Donna DeMartino was named the new managing director of the Los Angeles–San Diego–San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency.

In addition to leading efforts to improve passenger rail ridership, reliability, coordination, and safety along the LOSSAN rail corridor, DeMartino will oversee management and operations of the state-supported, Amtrak-operated Pacific Surfliner intercity passenger rail service, replacing Jennifer L. Bergener, who has led the agency since 2012. Bergener was recently named deputy CEO of the Orange County Transportation Authority.

Ad Loading...

The 351-mile LOSSAN rail corridor covers a six-county coastal region in Southern California and is the second busiest intercity passenger rail corridor in the U.S. The Pacific Surfliner is the busiest state-supported Amtrak route in the country.

DeMartino’s appointment was unanimously approved by the executive committee and supported by the LOSSAN board. She brings more than 30 years of demonstrated ability in delivering mission-critical projects, most recently serving as CEO of the San Joaquin Regional Transit District since 2001. She led the conversion of the entire Stockton Metropolitan Area fleet to all hybrid and electric buses. She also led the design and secured funding for important facility upgrades, including construction of a new Downtown Transit Center, a new Regional Transportation Center, and several major passenger transfer locations. DeMartino began her career as a member of Sacramento Regional Transit’s light rail start up and operations team.

The LOSSAN Agency is governed by an 11-member Board composed of officials representing rail owners, operators, and planning agencies along the LOSSAN rail corridor between San Diego and San Luis Obispo.

More Management

Terrel Smith on a bus with Kiel seats

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →