Jack L. Stephens, retired executive director of the South Florida Reginal Transportation Authority (SFRTA), passed away June 2 of natural causes in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Stephens retired from the SFRTA in December 2018 after having held leadership positions in the public transportation industry for more than 30 years.

Stephens was named executive director of the SFRTA in February 2014 after having served as deputy executive director since 2003. As the executive director, Stephens was responsible for an organization that had a $119.8 million dollar operating budget and a $117.6 million capital budget. The SFRTA operates Tri-Rail, Florida’s premier commuter rail system, which serves customers 365 days of the year.

Prior to joining the SFRTA, Stephens spent a dozen years associated with the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority in a succession of managerial positions, including deputy GM, administration and interim GM/CEO. Prior to coming into the transit industry, he was associated with the Orleans Parish Public Schools and the Georgia Department of Offender Rehabilitation. In addition, he served as legislative staff for the State of Georgia Senate and House of Representatives.