APTA names Nelson new chair

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) this week announced Jeffrey Nelson, general manager of the Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District in Moline, Illinois, has assumed the role of the association's chair.

Nelson succeeds Nuria Fernandez, former general manager and chief executive officer of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. President Joe Biden recently named Fernandez deputy administrator of the Federal Transit Administration.

Nelson previously served as APTA vice chair.

“Jeff’s work as vice chair of APTA, combined with his four decades of experience in the industry, will serve him well as he leads the association during a challenging and transformational time,” said APTA President and CEO Paul Skoutelas in a press release.

Nelson’s primary responsibilities will be overseeing APTA’s mobility recovery and restoration efforts, working with Congress and the Biden administration on priorities for public transit, and advancing APTA’s strategic plan. His term will extend until October 2022.