Atlanta Beltline aims to hire ‘transit innovation’ pro to boost mobility

Just weeks after transit supporters’ hopes for light-rail trains on the bustling Eastside Trail were dashed, Atlanta Beltline Inc. has issued a call for the right executive to come onboard and help shape the future of transit around the 22-mile loop. 

Specifically, the position ABI leaders are looking to create and fill is titled “Vice President of Transit Innovation.”

The role calls for a “visionary and globally minded leader” to take the reins on developing and implementing “cutting-edge, equitable transit solutions across the Atlanta Beltline corridor,” by way of “global best practices and emerging technologies” that help close Atlanta’s equity gap and improve transit access for all neighborhoods, according to the job posting.  

Right now, 85 percent of the Beltline’s mainline trail—that storied 22-mile, multipurpose circle—is either open to the public or actively under construction, with a long-stated goal of being finished by 2030. But not an inch of alternate transportation infrastructure has been built alongside the multi-use pathway. 

Key responsibilities of the Beltline transit executive will include partnering with MARTA, the City of Atlanta, international experts, academic institutions, transportation innovators, public-private organizations, and regional agencies to deliver transit alternatives, per the job description.

Identifying and securing funding sources for transit—including philanthropic partnerships, private-sector investments, and federal grants (good luck right now)—will also be part of the role. 

Asked for insight into exactly what the new position could mean for the city and Beltline moving forward, Beltline reps provided a short statement from Clyde Higgs, Beltline president and CEO. It reads: 

“We are excited for this new opportunity for a Vice President of Transit Innovation to join the more than 60-member team at the Atlanta Beltline,” wrote Higgs. “This critical leadership role will drive the development and implementation of the vision of transit along the 22-mile Beltline loop, helping shape the future of Atlanta.” 

The position calls for at least 10 years of leadership experience in transit planning, public infrastructure, or innovation (with a relevant masters degree preferred). A track record of leading multi-agency initiatives and knack for emerging technologies and international transit delivery models in dense urban environments is also required.

The right candidate will also bring “familiarity with Atlanta’s transportation landscape, the Beltline vision, and community development strategies” to the table, per the posting. 

The broader goal with the executive hire is to weave “world-class, next-generation transit solutions” into the Beltline corridor, according to ABI. What those solutions could entail isn't specified.  

The job posting mentions that keeping transit plans transparent and open to the public will be key to future transit initiatives, to help build public trust and buy-in from stakeholders. 

Higgs urges any interested candidates to apply here. 

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