Demetrius Crichlow Named New NYC Transit President

NEW YORK CITY — The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has appointed Demetrius Crichlow as the 12th permanent president of New York City Transit on Wednesday.

Crichlow takes over the role after serving over four months as the interim president. He becomes the first African American to hold the position.

Crichlow will oversee the 50,000-person workforce, including operations for New York City subways, buses, paratransit services, and the Staten Island Railway.

"I’ve been here for 27 going on 28 years, and I’ve learned the system, the people. But I’m always learning more, and we’re at a point where this organization is prepared to change with new cars, new infrastructure, and it needs a steady hand to guide it, said NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow. “I’m honored to be taking on that role, it means the world to me and acknowledges a lifelong career of public service, and now it’s time to get to work."

Crichlow is a third-generation MTA employee. His father and grandfather both worked at NYCT.

Crichlow started at the MTA in 1997 as an assistant signal maintainer for the Long Island Rail Road, then moved on to overseeing operations for the commuter line at Penn Station. In 2007, he switched to MTA headquarters, where he worked his way to become head of the subway system.

"We’re talking about commitment, pride in the system, its legacy and its importance to New York, which is why I am really proud to announce these appointments today,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “Today’s the day for celebrating and getting to work delivering for New Yorkers and I know we are going to be able to because you are the right people."