The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) and Cardinal HRS have made new appointments to their respective leadership teams.
CCTA
CCTA has appointed Danielle Elkins as the agency’s deputy executive director of planning, programs and policy.
CCTA notes Elkins is a nationally recognized expert in transportation innovation, policy development and smart mobility. In her new role, she will oversee CCTA’s long-term planning initiatives, funding programs and policy development. She brings deep expertise in emerging mobility technologies, transit accessibility and multimodal integration, having led major transportation initiatives across the country.
Prior to joining CCTA, Elkins served as senior project manager for mobility at the city of Minneapolis, where she developed and implemented policies for micromobility, connected and automated vehicles, electric vehicle infrastructure, curbside management and mobility data systems. She also helped secure millions in state and federal grants for mobility innovation, including a United States Department of Transportation Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation Grant and funding for a regional network of mobility hubs.
Elkins previously advised CCTA on the GoMentum Innovation Alliance Workforce Development Project. She also has a background in transportation policy and engineering in the Bay Area, working on projects like California high-speed rail and bus rapid transit design.
“CCTA is known nationally for its leadership in innovation and transportation planning, and I’m thrilled to be part of a team shaping the future of mobility in Contra Costa County,” Elkins said. “From sustainable infrastructure planning to integrating emerging mobility solutions, I look forward to advancing policies and programs that help improve how people move throughout the region.”
“Danielle’s deep background in transportation planning and emerging mobility technologies will help us deliver transformative projects that enhance safety, sustainability and accessibility for Contra Costa residents,” said CCTA Executive Director Tim Haile. “We’re excited for her leadership as we continue to advance critical regional mobility initiatives and build a more connected future for everyone.”
CCTA says Elkins’ appointment will support key regional projects, including the INNOVATE 680 corridor improvements, autonomous vehicle testing at GoMentum Station and enhanced multimodal infrastructure programs.
SDOT
Adiam Emery stepped into her new role as interim director of SDOT on February 4, bringing over 30 years of experience and a deep commitment to a safe, reliable and equitable transportation system.
Emery began her career as an intern at SDOT while studying at the University of Washington. She has since held key leadership roles, including transportation engineer, operations manager and division director. Most recently, she served as deputy mayor in Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell’s Administration, where she worked closely with SDOT on critical transportation initiatives.
“I’m honored to return to SDOT and continue the city’s important work to help everyone in Seattle get where they need to go safely and easily. As we move forward, my focus is on delivering the voter-approved Seattle Transportation Levy, strengthening partnerships and ensuring our transportation system works for all,” Emery said.
Cardinal HRS
Cardinal HRS has named Amanda Barlow principal consultant. Barlow was the first woman executive and the first deputy CEO in the Greater Attleboro Regional Transit Authority history. During her tenure, she led initiatives to expand and modernize Medicaid-funded non-emergency medical Transportation (NEMT) services, including restructuring the NEMT training program and implementing electronic ride booking. Cardinal HRS notes the shift empowered riders needing dialysis, medical appointments and community services to independently schedule their trips, greatly improving accessibility and service efficiency.
Recently, Barlow launched an initiative to support federal transit employees impacted by job loss, offering pro bono resume review and career coaching to help those affected navigate their next steps in the industry. As a graduate and now trainer for the Community Transportation Association of America’s Leadership Academy, Barlow helps equip emerging transit professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively.
At Swiftly, Barlow partnered with more than 40 transit agencies to improve the passenger experience and enhance service delivery. She co-founded Cardinal HRS in 2021.
“Transportation is more than just moving people—it’s about empowering, fostering independence and ensuring that all individuals have equal access to safe and reliable mobility solutions,” Barlow said.
Brandon Lewis | Associate Editor
Brandon Lewis is a recent graduate of Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Lewis is a former freelance editorial assistant at Vehicle Service Pros in Endeavor Business Media’s Vehicle Repair Group. Lewis brings his knowledge of web managing, copyediting and SEO practices to Mass Transit Magazine as an associate editor. He is also a co-host of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast.
