The Atlanta Streetcar announced on Aug. 27, that Keith Jones has been named interim executive director. Jones comes to Atlanta from the URS Corp., formerly United Research Services, and has previously served as the CEO and general manager of the Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CAT). Jones will serve on an interim basis while a national search is conducted for a permanent replacement.
In addition, Ozell Hayes has been named interim director of safety, security and training. Hayes previously served as the safety manager for the department of aviation for the city of Atlanta.
“The city of Atlanta is pleased to welcome Keith Jones to our Atlanta Streetcar team. His wealth of experience and industry knowledge makes him a valued member of our leadership team,” said Kristin Wilson, interim chief operating officer. “The Atlanta Streetcar is committed to being a national leader in the transit industry, and I am confident that with two new leaders in place, the Streetcar will continue to provide riders with a safe, comfortable and convenient experience.”
Jones has 40 years of experience in transit and transportation. While leading CAT, he directed the implementation of the first two phases of the River Rail Streetcar project. River Rail celebrated its 10th year of operation in 2014, and Jones has been credited for its role in generating more than $900 million in new investment along the 3.5-mile route. He also managed the design and construction of the streetcar operations and maintenance facility, the bus operations and maintenance facility and the River Cities Travel Center.
“I am excited to continue the progress of the Atlanta Streetcar and look forward to working with the team to further develop its existing system,” said Jones. “I am fortunate to join such a respected city that prides itself on constructing and operating the best streetcar system in the United States.”
Prior to joining the city of Atlanta, Jones also served as president of the eight-state South West Transit Association (SWTA). He was the director of statewide planning for the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department and director of transportation planning for Metroplan, the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the Little Rock area. He has also worked for the St. Louis MPO. In 2004, the Community Transportation Association of America named Jones outstanding transportation manager of the year.
