The New York State Senate confirmed Thomas F. Prendergast to serve as chairman and CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority late Thursday, June 20, 2013.
Prendergast has served as MTA interim executive director since Jan. 1, succeeding, Joseph Lhota, currently seeking the Republican nomination for mayor of New York City. Prendergast has served for more than three years as president of MTA New York City Transit, and for six years as the president of the Long Island Rail Road. His career also includes a stint as CEO for Vancouver, British Columbia's TransLink.
"Tom Prendergast has a proven track record of leadership and transportation expertise, especially when it comes to the managing the vast transportation network of the MTA," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement released Thursday. "As Interim Executive Director, Tom was vital to the recovery of the MTA after Superstorm Sandy and he will continue to play a crucial role in making the MTA more modern, efficient and storm ready. I look forward to Tom's continued success in running the nation's largest transportation system."
Gov. Cuomo nominated Predergast in mid-April for the position.
"I am grateful that Governor Cuomo has entrusted me with the responsibility of leading the largest transportation agency in North America," Prendergast said. "The MTA faces enormous challenges to continue improving service while cutting costs and rebuilding stronger after Superstorm Sandy. Leading the MTA through these challenges is critical to the lives of millions of New Yorkers and the future of the New York economy. Governor Cuomo has repeatedly demonstrated his strong support for the MTA, and I deeply appreciate this opportunity."