Eric Marx named interim executive director at PRTC

Eric Marx, PRTC’s Director of Planning and Operations, has been appointed interim executive director of the transportation agency effective May 15. The appointment was made by the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) Board of Commissioners on April 2.

PRTC’s current Executive Director Alfred Harf informed the Commission earlier this year of his intent to resign after more than 16 years as the organization’s leader and agreed to time his departure to suit the Commission’s need for an orderly transition.

“The appointment of Mr. Marx reflects the confidence the Commission has in his readiness to assume the leadership position, having served with distinction as the organization’s Director of Planning and Operations for nearly 16 years of his 22 year tenure,” said PRTC Board Chairman John Jenkins. “It also reflects the Commission’s belief that the challenges the organization faces in the immediate future require a leader having intimacy with the agency and its history, as Mr. Marx clearly has.” 

Mr. Marx expressed his appreciation to the Commission for the vote of confidence his appointment signifies.  “The challenges are real, and I’m honored by the Commission’s decision to let me assume this responsibility,” he said.

Commenting on Mr. Harf’s tenure as the organization’s chief executive, Mr. Jenkins observed that “the organization’s growth during the 16 years of Mr. Harf’s direction has been nothing short of remarkable.”

Under his leadership, ridership more than tripled; the average age of the bus fleet has been dramatically reduced; many new routes were started (including OmniRide services to the Washington Navy Yard, Rosslyn/Ballston, and Tysons; three separate Metro Direct routes to nearby Metrorail Stations; and a local Cross County Connector route); and service frequency on the local OmniLink routes was increased.  Mr. Harf’s tenure has also been marked by the introduction of new technologies to increase efficiency, improve reliability, and enhance the customer’s trip experience.

”The Commission and PRTC’s customers have been well served by Mr. Harf’s leadership, and he should feel proud of what has been accomplished on his watch,” Mr. Jenkins said.