Santa Cruz Metro welcomes Michael Tree as new CEO/general manager

Michael Tree has been named the new CEO/general manager of the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (Santa Cruz Metro). Tree’s start date is April 25, 2022.

“Following a nation-wide search and many hours of work by our recruitment team, I’m happy to announce the appointment of Michael Tree as Santa Cruz Metro’s new CEO/general manager," said Metro Board Chair Larry Pageler. "We’re excited by his extensive expertise and knowledge of public transit as well as his proven track record in increasing connectivity for the public. We look forward to Michael expanding our zero-emissions bus plan so Metro can continue to reduce our emissions and our impact on the environment.”

Tree has more than 27 years of experience in the public transit industry and city management. His most recent experience as executive director of the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority (LAVTA) focused on increasing the agency’s transportation options to improve ease of use and connectivity for riders. This resulted in an increased number of Rapid Routes with 15-minute, all-day frequency and expanded travel options for passengers with disabilities.

While Executive Director of LAVTA, Tree was also the executive director for the Tri-Valley – San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority, a new rail authority created by the state of California to plan and deliver the Valley Link commuter rail project--a 42-mile, seven-station project. Under Tree’s leadership, the rail authority completed the feasibility report, environmental work, preliminary design and assembled more than $700 million for the project.

“I’m pleased to hear of the appointment of Michael Tree as Metro’s CEO/general manager and look forward to handing the baton over to his new leadership. CEO Tree’s long standing experience in public transit will be a huge asset to Metro and I look forward to him continuing to strengthen our bond among our employees and community,” said Dawn Crummié, Santa Cruz Metro interim CEO/general manager and HR director.

In his career, Tree has been named Transit Manager of the Year by both the California Association for Coordinated Transportation and the California Transit Association, and in 2020, LAVTA was named the North American Transit Agency of the Year in its category by the American Public Transit Association. Tree holds a master’s degree in Transportation Management from San Jose State University and a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Brigham Young University.

“I’m excited to lead Santa Cruz Metro into its next chapter. The future holds opportunity for Metro to improve the quality of life for residents through better connectivity, especially for those who are disadvantaged. I’m also committed to growing the zero-emission fleet at Metro to protect our environment. I look forward to strengthening the partnership with our employees, passengers and the board as we deliver attractive and innovative service,” said Tree.