Mamdani considers DOT veterans, including ‘Vision Zero’ leader, for Transportation Commissioner position.

Two prominent experts in transportation planning have surfaced as leading candidates for the position of commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) under incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Both Ryan Russo and Nivardo Lopez bring a wealth of experience to the table, with Russo previously overseeing the implementation of the “Vision Zero” initiative aimed at improving street safety across the city.

The DOT holds significant importance for Mamdani, who pledged during his campaign to make public bus transport “fast and free.” Key responsibilities of the department include the transformation of car-heavy routes into dedicated bus corridors, an initiative that Mamdani has identified as a priority. The mayor-elect’s team is closely evaluating Russo and Lopez for their qualifications to lead these efforts.

Russo has an extensive background in urban transportation, having worked with the NYC DOT for 14 years, starting during the Bloomberg administration and serving as a top official under former Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg. After leaving NYC, he assumed the role of the first permanent director of the DOT in Oakland, California. Currently, he is the executive director of the National Association of City Transportation Officials, focusing on urban mobility strategies that prioritize cycling and pedestrian safety.

Lopez, who recently served as the principal deputy chief program officer for the Gateway Development Commission, also has notable experience within the NYC DOT, holding various senior positions during the de Blasio administration. His tenure concluded as the Bronx borough commissioner, and he has since been involved in major transit projects, including the new rail tunnel project under the Hudson River.

Mamdani is set to take office on January 1, 2025, and while he has indicated he might consider retaining Ydanis Rodriguez, the current DOT commissioner, sources suggest it is unlikely Rodriguez will maintain his position once Mamdani assumes control.

In addition to the challenges of selecting a new commissioner, Mamdani faces considerable hurdles in funding his ambitious transit agenda. His proposal to implement free bus services is estimated to require approximately 0 million annually. To support this initiative, Mamdani has suggested increasing taxes on high-income earners and corporations. However, this approach will require the cooperation of Governor Kathy Hochul, who has expressed opposition to tax increases in the upcoming fiscal year.

In a recent statement, Governor Hochul articulated her reservations about the feasibility of making public transportation entirely fare-free while addressing the system’s reliance on fare revenue. As Mamdani moves forward with his plans, he will need to navigate these complexities to fulfill his commitments to New York City’s public transportation network.