Fla.’s Palm Beach County named Ivan Maldonado as its new executive director of Palm Tran.

Maldonado brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership in the transportation sector, previously serving as deputy executive officer at Metro Transit Omaha, Neb.; director, transportation/bus operations, at Fla.’s Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART); director, bus operations control center & street operations, at Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; and executive director/superintendent at StarMetro in Tallahassee, Fla.

Bringing Experience to Palm Tran

With nearly 20 years in the industry, Maldonado has held key roles in transportation management, strategic planning, and operational efficiency.

His expertise in enhancing public transit services and improving customer experience aligns perfectly with Palm Tran's mission to provide access to opportunity for everyone safely, efficiently, and courteously, said the agency.

"We are thrilled to welcome Ivan as the new Executive Director of Palm Tran," said Verdenia C. Baker, county administrator. "His extensive background in transportation management and his dedication to enhancing public transit service makes him the ideal candidate to lead Palm Tran into its next phase of growth and development."

Maldonado steps into his new role during a critical period in Palm Tran history.

He succeeds Interim Executive Director Michael J. Blaylock, who led Palm Tran’s day-to-day operations for the past seven months after the passing of Clinton B. Forbes in November 2023.

Blaylock, an internationally renowned transit executive and consultant, who was once a mentor to Forbes, will stay with Palm Tran for a brief period of time to provide a seamless transition for Maldonado.

Maldonado’s Palm Tran Responsibilities

In his new role, Maldonado will oversee all aspects of Palm Tran's operations, including bus service, Connection paratransit service, maintenance, and strategic initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability.

His leadership will be instrumental in Palm Tran’s upcoming pilot programs, including the launch of Palm Tran’s Port St. Lucie Express and Transportation Network Company voucher program.

"I am honored to join Palm Tran and to have the opportunity to serve the residents of Palm Beach County," said Maldonado. "I look forward to working collaboratively with the talented team at Palm Tran to build on our successes and to further enhance the transportation services that are vital to Palm Beach County."