NJ Transit boss leaving

After a difficult seven years, Kevin Corbett told employees this morning that he will leave his post as president and CEO of New Jersey Transit to “pursue a new professional opportunity” — which is expected to include a teaching post at Rutgers University and some board positions.

His departure leaves the beleaguered transit agency searching for an interim leader in the eighth and final year of Phil Murphy’s term as governor.  Since taking office, Murphy has vowed to fix the state’s public transportation system – “We’re fixing New Jersey Transit if it kills me,” he’d say regularly – but Corbett and the Murphy administration have been unable to do so.

“Leading this organization has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Corbett said in an email to employees.  “I’m pleased to share that my new role will allow me to remain deeply connected to the transportation section, focusing on innovation, infrastructure and advocacy for public transit in our region.”

Murphy said  that Corbett’s “leadership and service to the people of New Jersey has been unwavering and I wish him the best as he begins this next chapter.”

“As the most densely populated state, uniquely situated between two major metropolitan hubs, New Jersey disproportionately depends on mass transit, which is why fixing NJ TRANSIT has been a top priority of my Administration,” Murphy said.  “Kevin has worked in coordination with our federal government, Amtrak, and our Legislature to develop strategic plans and solutions that address commuters’ concerns and position NJ TRANSIT for long-term reliability and success.”

Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips (R-Wyckoff) said he was glad Corbett is leaving.

“This is a positive day for New Jersey commuters and taxpayers,” DePhillips said.  “Kevin Corbett has been tone deaf to the daily hell that New Jersey Transit commuters have faced for years, and that is why I called for his resignation when he finally came before the Assembly Transportation Committee on Nov. 14.”

DePhillips said “throwing more money at the problems isn’t solving anything.”

“It’s not a money issue, it’s a leadership issue,” stated DePhillips . “Corbett should have been fired, especially following the disastrous summer season, to send a message that we mean business.”

Corbett, 69, praised the “dedication and compassion” of the agency’s employees, especially during the pandemic.

New Jersey Transit gave away a free week of bus and train fares after an “ugly summer” that followed a 15% fare increase.

Murphy picked the career transportation official and part-time farmer after taking office in 2018.