DRBA Commission selects Rashad Taylor as new executive director for agency
Delaware River and Bay Authority commissioners unanimously voted March 18 to appoint Rashad J. Taylor, a Wilmington resident, to be the agency’s next executive director.
“I appreciate and value the confidence that the commissioners have in my abilities to lead the Delaware River and Bay Authority,” Taylor said. “Public service is important to me, and the authority operates and manages significant transportation infrastructure vital to our region’s prosperity. It’s a great opportunity to use the experience, skills and knowledge that I’ve gained throughout my professional career to make a difference for the citizens of Delaware and New Jersey. I look forward to working with the dedicated men and women of the authority to further our transportation and economic development missions.”
Prior to joining DRBA, Taylor served as deputy chief of staff for Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer, where he oversaw multiple state agencies, managed cabinet appointments and led cross-agency collaboration to improve government efficiency and service delivery. Previously, as deputy chief administrative officer for New Castle County, he spearheaded initiatives to modernize county operations, improve transparency and enhance public engagement.
Taylor also served as chief policy officer and senior advisor to Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, where he played a central role in policy development, budget planning and crisis management. He was instrumental in launching the Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, securing significant philanthropic investments, and leading key infrastructure and economic development projects. His leadership also extended to serving two terms in the Georgia House of Representatives, where he was elected Democratic Caucus vice chair and helped shape state policy on education, transportation and economic growth
“As New Castle County’s deputy chief administrative officer, Rashad Taylor has a proven track record focused on driving major policy initiatives, managing complex government operations, and leading teams to deliver meaningful results and achieving goals,” said Samuel E. Lathem, who leads the Delaware commission delegation. “Rashad is a highly respected and experienced leader whose background makes him ideally suited for his new role as executive director. We look forward to working with him.”
“Mr. Taylor has the right combination of significant government experience and results-oriented approach that will make a great agency even better,” said Chair Earl Ransome. “We’re pleased that Rashad will lend his talents, leadership abilities and problem-solving skills to the DRBA. He’s a great addition to lead our management team.”
Taylor, who will officially begin his duties Wednesday, April 2, is the authority’s sixth executive director since its inception in 1962.
The DRBA, a bi-state governmental agency created by compact in 1962, owns and operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and the Forts Ferry Crossing. It also manages two airports in New Jersey (Millville Executive Airport and Cape May Airport) and three in Delaware (Wilmington Airport, Civil Air Terminal and Delaware Airpark). All DRBA operating revenues are generated through the bridge, ferry and airport facilities. For more information, go to drba.net.
