Dorval R. Carter, Jr. Retires as CTA President After 40 Years in Public Transportation
A Giant in Public Transportation Announces Retirement
Dorval R. Carter, Jr., a giant in the public transportation world, announced his retirement as President of the Chicago Transit Authority, effective January 31. His retirement marks the end of a 40-year career in public transportation, including nearly 10 years leading CTA, the nation’s third-largest transit agency. But it marks a new chapter as he prepares for his new role as president and CEO of St. Anthony Hospital on Chicago’s West Side.
The City of Chicago Expresses Gratitude
“The City of Chicago is grateful to President Dorval Carter for his decades of service with the Chicago Transit Authority,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “His leadership reimagined the movement of our city. His stewardship of the Red Line Extension project is just one of the notable achievements in his historic career.”
A Long and Illustrious Career
Carter’s journey at CTA began in 1984 when he joined the agency as a staff attorney. Over the years, he worked his way up, holding various leadership positions, including executive vice president and acting president. His experience spans nearly 15 years with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Transit Administration.
A Legacy of Achievements
“Serving as president of this great agency has been an extraordinary privilege, and I am forever grateful for what has been the opportunity of a lifetime,” Carter said. “It has been an honor to work on behalf of CTA customers and to advance our mission in a city that I love so dearly.”
Notable Projects and Initiatives
Under Carter’s leadership, CTA completed or began more than $11 billion in projects, including the $5.7 billion Red Line Extension, the largest capital construction project in the agency’s history. Other significant projects included the $2.1 billion first phase of the Red Purple Modernization Program and the $280 million renovation of the 95th/Dan Ryan Terminal.
Equity-Focused Initiatives
- The All Stations Accessibility Program: This initiative has worked to make CTA’s rail stations fully accessible to people with mobility disabilities. The Federal Transit Administration modeled its own $1.75 billion accessibility program after CTA’s ASAP, which has secured over $740 million in funding over the past six years.
- CTA’s Second Chance Program: Created by Carter nearly two decades ago, this program offers opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment, especially those with justice-system involvement. Since 2011, more than 2,200 individuals have participated, with over 550 hired into full or part-time jobs at CTA.
- Diversity Programs Initiatives: Carter’s efforts have helped CTA become a leader in creating opportunities for small and disadvantaged business enterprises, making it one of the most productive agencies in the nation.
Leadership Beyond CTA
Carter’s leadership has also extended beyond CTA. In 2022, he was elected chair of the American Public Transportation Association, representing over 1,500 public and private sector organizations. He continues to serve as chair of APTA’s Bus Manufacturing Task Force and is a member of the Board of Directors for Mpact, a nonprofit focusing on transit, mobility, and land use.
Awards and Recognition
Carter has received numerous accolades for his work, including the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award for Transportation Professional and Public Service from the Council of University Transportation Centers and the 2021 Outstanding Public Transportation Manager Award from APTA. CTA and Carter were recognized in 2021 with the highest honors in the North American public transportation industry.
Conclusion
Dorval R. Carter, Jr.’s retirement marks the end of an era in public transportation. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to equity have left an indelible mark on the industry. As he embarks on his new role at St. Anthony Hospital, the city of Chicago, and the public transportation community wish him all the best.
FAQs
* What is Dorval R. Carter, Jr.’s new role?
He will be the president and CEO of St. Anthony Hospital on Chicago’s West Side.
* How long has Dorval R. Carter, Jr. been in public transportation?
He has been in public transportation for 40 years, including nearly 10 years leading CTA.
* What are some of his notable achievements?
Some of his notable achievements include the Red Line Extension, the Red Purple Modernization Program, and the renovation of the 95th/Dan Ryan Terminal, as well as his equity-focused initiatives, such as the All Stations Accessibility Program and the Second Chance Program.
* What awards has he received?
He has received the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award for Transportation Professional and Public Service and the 2021 Outstanding Public Transportation Manager Award from APTA, among others.
