RTA chief announces retirement amid launch of new transit agency

Longtime Regional Transportation Authority Executive Director Leanne Redden announced her retirement Wednesday amid seismic changes for public transit in Chicago and the suburbs.

“My decision to retire is made with a full heart and total confidence in where this agency is headed,” Redden said.

On Tuesday, the RTA morphed into the Northern Illinois Transit Authority. The change gives the new agency greater oversight powers for Metra, Pace and the CTA, and was a result of 2025 transit reform legislation.

Redden joined the RTA in 2005, serving as senior deputy executive director until her promotion in 2014. Her contract expires Nov. 30, and her last day is yet to be determined.

“I leave the transit system in the strongest position it has ever been in and proud of a career spent connecting people to opportunity,” Redden said in a statement.

“Since 2021, ridership is up 116%, service levels are at record highs, and customer satisfaction is the highest it's been since 2022. That is a direct reflection of the people who do this work every day.”

Redden is also chair of the American Public Transportation Association.

“Leanne was a steady hand, an innovator and a transparent steward,” former RTA Chair Kirk Dillard said in a statement. “Her leadership created a strong foundation for NITA to build on.”

The RTA to NITA transition brings an influx of newcomers, as the number of board directors increases from 15 to 20.

Just five RTA directors were selected by appointing authorities to sit on the NITA board. Four NITA directors, however, are currently serving on the boards of either Metra, Pace or the CTA.

mpyke@dailyherald.com