Elizabeth O'Neil, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority's (MARTA) chief legal counsel, announced her retirement after 22 years.
She will be succeeded by Peter J. Andrews from global law firm Greenberg Traurig LLP on Jan. 1, 2022. MARTA Senior Director of Corporate Law Jonathan J. Hunt will work with Andrews as deputy chief legal counsel.
“Liz has been a tremendous asset to MARTA over the past two decades, previously serving as associate counsel, chief of litigation, and interim general manager,” said GM/CEO Jeffrey Parker. “Her legal expertise and guidance were crucial when expanding our service to Clayton County and in the passage of the 15th Amendment. Most recently, she has been instrumental in navigating the legality of COVID-19 restrictions and requirements. She is a trusted colleague and friend and I wish her the best in her retirement.”
O’Neill’s successor, Andrews, has 20 years of legal experience, representing clients in the areas of government law, state and local government contracts and procurement, public transportation, public-private partnerships, request for proposal (RFP) compliance and public finance. As a former deputy city attorney for Atlanta he negotiated agreements with MARTA and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to build the Atlanta Streetcar. Andrews studied political science at Delaware State University and received his Juris Doctor degree from Western New England College of Law.
“Efficient and accessible transportation will continue to be critical for the transformation of the Atlanta metro area. As such, MARTA plays such a vital role in our community. Representing MARTA is a source of pride for me and I am thankful for this is a unique and exciting opportunity,” Andrews said.
A member of MARTA’s Legal Department for seven years, Jonathan Hunt will assume the position of deputy chief legal counsel and report directly to Andrews. His experience includes employment with the city of Atlanta, Dentons US LLP, Limited Brands Inc., and BakerHostetler. Hunt earned his Juris Doctor degree from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio.
Andrews was hired after an extensive industry search that resulted in a competitive recruitment and selection process. He will transition into the role over the next three months and begin serving full-time as chief legal counsel after the first of the year, reporting directly to the general manager and CEO.
