Transportation champion Downey dies at 87

Mortimer "Mort" Downey, a transportation industry titan, died Nov. 2. He was 87.

Downey served as deputy secretary of transportation during all eight years of President Bill Clinton’s administration.

He also served in transportation advisory roles on Capitol Hill; was part of the team that took over the bankrupt Hudson and Manhattan Railroad, which became the Port Authority-Trans Hudson (PATH) system; served in leadership roles at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in New York City, including as executive director; served on and chaired the Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority's board; and was a longtime member of the Eno Center for Transportation’s board, according to an obituary written by Jeff Davis on the center's website.

"Mort was a highly respected expert in his field who was known for his leadership and mentoring skills. He was a tireless champion, leader and friend," said American Public Transportation Association President and CEO Paul Skoutelas in a press release.

Downey is survived by two sons and seven grandchildren.