People News: MARTA Deputy Ops GM; San Diego MTS Security, Safety Director
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
Collie Greenwood, Deputy General Manager, Operations, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (left); Al Stiehler, Director of Transit Security and Passenger Safety, San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) promoted Collie Greenwood to Deputy General Manager, Operations. In addition, California’s San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) named Al Stiehler Director of Transit Security and Passenger Safety, succeeding Manny Guaderrama, who retired in August 2020.
Greenwood, who joined MARTA in July 2019, served previously as Chief of Bus Operations. He now oversees all bus and rail operations, and will work on major capital projects, including overseeing the design and delivery of 254 new railcars under a $646 million agreement with Stadler Rail and the integration of the agency’s first electric buses. Greenwood also co-chairs MARTA’s Return to New Normal Task Force.
“Over the course of this unprecedented year, Collie has shown steadfast leadership with his tireless support of our bus operations, and his willingness to make the tough decisions demanded by the pandemic,” MARTA General Manager and CEO Jeffrey Parker said. “I am confident he will bring that same commitment to the rail side of our operation and lead the way as we prepare for exciting systemwide enhancements and expansion.”
Starting Jan. 18, Stiehler will oversee 64 internal MTS Code Compliance Inspectors and 158 contracted security officers who cover 95 bus routes and three Trolley lines. He has served as Chief of Field Operations for New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority since 2017, and spent 30 years holding various law enforcement positions at the New Jersey Transit Police Department, including Deputy Chief of Police and Field Operations.
Among Stiehler’s achievements: Developed and executed a Homeless Assistance Program to secure permanent housing and mental health for people experiencing homelessness at Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal; and devised, implemented and managed the fare inspection program on NJ Transit’s light rail system.
“As a long time transit employee, Al Stiehler has proven progressive experience in transit enforcement, investigations, and staff supervision,” MTS Board Chair and San Diego County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher said. “I have absolute confidence in his ability to provide the leadership and expertise we need to continue improving the safety and security of our passengers and employees.”
