Calling it a decision that was reached with mixed emotions, NJ Transit CEO Kevin Corbett this morning submitted his resignation, effective Jan. 15, 2025, ROI-NJ has learned.
Corbett said he will be taking a position at a university in the state. Two sources, who are not authorized to speak publicly, told ROI-NJ that Corbett is headed to the Rutgers School of Engineering.
In his resignation letter, viewed by ROI-NJ, Corbett said serving as CEO has been the “opportunity of a lifetime,” but he is looking forward to spending more time with his family while keeping involved in transportation issues while working at the university level.
Corbett said his new position will enable him “to remain deeply connected to the transportation sector, focusing on practical innovation, infrastructure and advocacy of our region.”
The news of his departure was first reported by NJ Globe.
Corbett was one of the first hires of the Murphy administration, in February of 2018. The governor has often said “fixing” NJ Transit was a main goal of his time in office.
In his letter to the board, addressed to Francis O’Connor, the commissioner of the department of transportation, Corbett said he feels he has left the organization in a stronger position than when he arrived.
He highlighted accomplishments, including:
- Completing efforts to add Positive Train Control to the system;
- Restoring the ranks of engineers and bus drivers;
- Developing the system’s first five-year capital plan of $17 billion – $6 billion of which has been delivered with $8 billon coming in the next three years;
- Making major renovations at many transit terminals, including Hoboken, which has not yet been completed;
That being said, the system still has issues, as major delays this summer showed.
Corbett, who has never run from the challenges, pointed to the system’s success to this summer’s Taylor Swift concerts as an example of its ability to handle big events. It’s why he is confident NJ Transit will be able to handle the demands of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Corbett, in the letter, said he is confident the system will continue to get better.
“NJ Transit is well positioned for continued success,” he wrote. “I am confident that this team will not only carry forward the mission of the agency but also ensure that it thrives in years to come.”
Corbett said he will remain in a consulting capacity for 30 days following his resignation to ensure a smooth transition. His efforts, however, will continue after that, he said.
“I look forward to continuing to champion the importance of public transportation in my new role,”
