1/20/03
The Chicago Transit Authority has named Bennie E. Smith, Jr., as Vice President of Capital Construction. Smith's responsibilities include oversight of the agency's $2.5 billion Capital Construction Program and ensuring that the more than 70 ongoing capital projects are completed on time and on budget. He is also involved in analyzing the CTA's capital requirements and developing future projects to meet growing ridership. Smith officially assumed his duties on January 15 at an annual salary of $120,000.
In naming Smith to the position, CTA President Frank Kruesi stated, "We are pleased to add Mr. Smith to our staff. His experience in the public and private sector will prove invaluable to the CTA in managing current projects such as the Cermak(Douglas) Blue Line Rehabilitation and as we move ahead with the Brown Line Capacity Expansion project."
Prior to joining the CTA, Smith, 43, was Director of Strategy and Operations Global Relations Resources Organization at Motorola in Schaumburg, Illinois. Past employers also include Northern Telecom, the State of Massachusetts? Office of Environmental Affairs, First National Bank of Boston, Allstate Insurance Company and Ada S. McKinley Community Services.
Smith obtained a law degree from Vanderbilt University School of Law, a master's degree in finance from Rutgers Graduate School of Management and a bachelor's degree in business administration from Illinois Wesleyan University. He resides in Chicago with his wife, Reverend Dr. Chandra Taylor Smith, and their son.
As the nation's second largest public transit agency, the CTA provides 1.5 million rides on an average weekday and takes pride in delivering quality, affordable transit service that link people, jobs and communities.
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