TransitCenter, a foundation dedicated to improving urban mobility, announced former policy director for the New York City Department of Transportation, Jon Orcutt, has been hired as the organization's new director of communications and advocacy.
Orcutt has been a leader in transportation policy reform for nearly 30 years, the organization said. From 2007-2014, Orcutt served as part of the agency leadership at NYCDOT that oversaw the launch of major street designs and other innovations under the Bloomberg Administration. During this period, the agency spearheaded critical efforts including NYCDOT's strategic plan, Sustainable Streets, and the introduction of the Citibike system, as well as Mayor Bill deBlasio's Vision Zero action plan. Prior to joining NYCDOT, Orcutt served as executive director of both Transportation Alternatives and the Tri-State Transportation Campaign, overseeing growth and rising influence at both organizations.
"Jon's years of experience in reforming transportation will now be put to use on behalf of transit riders across the nation," said TransitCenter executive director David Bragdon. "Jon has been an effective citizen advocate at both neighborhood and regional levels, and is accomplished at creating positive change within a large government agency. He also brings unique, hands-on experience to bear on the challenge of bringing the civic and public sectors together to make things happen. We are excited to add his talents to our team."
Since leaving New York City government, Orcutt has consulted on urban transportation strategies with a variety of governments, organizations and companies in North and South America and Europe, according to TransitCenter.
"The emergence of TransitCenter as a civic foundation is a really important development. Strengthening and expanding transit has never been more essential but never more uncertain," Orcutt said. "Innovation will be critical for cities and states attempting to meet the huge challenges they face, so I'm really excited about this opportunity to contribute."
