Amtrak: Moorman to step down as co-CEO; development team set for Baltimore Penn Station project

Amtrak co-Chief Executive Officer Wick Moorman will step down Dec. 31 and then assume the role of senior adviser, the railroad announced yesterday.

Richard Anderson, who joined Amtrak in June 2017 as co-CEO, will assume full chief executive responsibilities in addition to serving as president.

The transition was not unexpected, as Moorman has long said that his role as Amtrak's top executive would not be long term. A longtime freight-rail executive who retired as Norfolk Southern Corp.'s chairman in 2015, Moorman took over as Amtrak's leader in September 2016 after the retirement of Joseph Boardman.

"The board is grateful for Wick's significant contributions since he joined the company, and we are pleased that he is continuing to serve as a senior adviser," said Amtrak Chairman Tony Coscia in a press release.

During his tenure, Moorman focused on three objectives: improving Amtrak's operations, streamlining the railroad and finding his successor.

Over the past year, the railroad created a new organizational structure that improved operational efficiencies and customer experience, Amtrak officials said. In addition, the railroad achieved record ridership, revenue and earnings.

"I have greatly enjoyed my time at Amtrak, and firmly believe that the company is well positioned for the future," said Moorman. "I look forward to continuing my work with Richard and the entire Amtrak team to further advance passenger rail in this country."

Meanwhile, Amtrak also announced yesterday that it selected Penn Station Partners, a Baltimore-based team with global expertise, to negotiate a master development arrangement for Baltimore Penn Station and neighboring Amtrak properties.

The team includes Beatty Development Group, Armada Hoffler Properties, Cross Street Partners, Gensler, WSP USA, Network Rail Consulting and Mace Group.

Development goals will include modernizing and expanding the station and its amenities to accommodate growth, renovating the station's upper floors and supporting transit-oriented development.

"Baltimore Penn Station is the eighth busiest station in our national network and this important step underscores Amtrak’s continued efforts to significantly enhance the station experience and amenities for all travelers," said Bart Bush, Amtrak vice president of real estate stations and facilities.