Statement by Valarie J. McCall, APTA chair, and Richard A. White, APTA acting president and CEO:
"On behalf of the 1,5000 members of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), we mourn the passing of Robert R. Kiley, the longest-serving chair in the history of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Bob was a great friend and mentor to his fellow colleagues in the public transportation industry nationally and abroad. In addition, he was truly an inspirational and visionary leader.
He served as MTA chair from 1983, when he was appointed by then-New York Governor Mario Cuomo, to 1991. His tenure included implementation of the first and second MTA Capital Programs, overseeing more than $16 billion worth of investments in New York's public transit network and infrastructure, and an emphasis on the removal of graffiti from throughout the subway system.
Prior to his service at the MTA, Bob revived Boston's public transit systems in the 1970's as he served as the Chairman and CEO of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). In 2000, he joined Transport for London as commissioner of transport. Then-London Mayor Ken Livingstone, in announcing Kiley's appointment, called him 'one of the worlds' greatest experts on transport with a proven track record.'
He was recognized by the public transit industry for his tireless efforts and received APTA's National Distinguished Service Award in 1990. Bob set the example for all of us to follow and showed us how public transit leaders can dramatically improve the safety and reliability of a system while garnering record ridership levels. His tremendous work ethic, his dedication to his colleagues and the industry will be missed. We send our condolences to his family."
