Phil Eng has been appointed chief operating officer of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), responsible for overseeing major operating initiatives at all MTA agencies.
Eng’s responsibilities will include delivery of new fare payment systems and mobile ticketing apps, advertising contracts, technology integration, overall procurement strategy, oversight of best practices used across all agencies, and other key MTA priorities.
Prior to joining MTA, Eng served as executive deputy commissioner and chief engineer of the New York State Department of Transportation. There, he oversaw all aspects of engineering, operations and capital planning and was responsible for developing and delivering the department’s $2.5 billion annual highway and bridge program. He also was involved in key projects, including New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s plan to replace the Kosciuszko Bridge, as well as his proposal to add a third track to the Long Island Rail Road’s Main Line.
“Phil is a dedicated transportation professional with the knowledge and experience necessary to lead and improve the vital and vast transportation network of the MTA,” said MTA Interim Executive Director Ronnie Hakim, who, along with Acting Board Chairman Fernando Ferrer, announced Eng’s appointment.
“From opening the Second Avenue Subway to installing free Wi-Fi in all subway stations, we are reimagining the commuter experience and I am confident Phil has the dedication and expertise necessary to carry our vision into the future. I look forward to working with him to further our mission to renew, enhance and expand the system to meet the demands of the next generation of New Yorkers,” continued Hakim.
“Phil Eng has the experience, drive, and attention to detail needed to help ensure the MTA continues its transformation into a 21st century organization that best serves the needs of New Yorkers,” Ferrer said. “The MTA is the economic engine of the entire region and we are proud of the work our women and men do every day – we welcome Phil to the team.”
Eng started at the Department of Transportation in 1983 as a junior engineer and went on to hold several key positions, including construction supervisor, director of operations, and regional director of the department’s New York City office.
He earned a bachelor’s in engineering from Cooper Union and is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. He is a licensed professional engineer in New York State.
“I’m honored to be chosen to be part of the talented team that is working on the systematic transformational change taking place at the MTA now led by Governor’s Cuomo’s vision for a 21st Century transportation network. These changes will benefit all MTA customers and the region,” Eng said.