Phoenix selects new light rail administrator

Markus Coleman | Photo courtesy of the City of Phoenix

The city of Phoenix, Ariz., has a new light rail administrator. Markus Coleman, who brings experience in public transit, planning and development departments and the City Manager’s office, has been appointed to the administrator role.

“Markus has more than two decades of working with the city of Phoenix including most recently as the lead in overseeing the South Central Light Rail Extension Transit Oriented Development grant,” said Mario Paniagua, deputy city manager.

Paniagua also highlighted Coleman’s upbringing in Phoenix, noting his strong personal ties to the South Phoenix community. He said he believes Coleman understands the importance of public transit to residents who rely on transit as their primary method of transportation.

Coleman is an alumnus of Arizona State University, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Metropolitan Studies. He also earned a certificate in Public Administration and Public Management, officials said.

“I am excited and proud to continue serving our communities and customers in this new role,” says Coleman. “I will continue to look for ways to provide transit options to all of Phoenix.”

Coleman has a total 23 years of experience with the city of Phoenix and has worked throughout his career on development projects and transportation.

He also brings experience working as an engineering technician, plan review coordinator and project manager. He has previously served on a rotation as acting deputy public transit director of transit operations, officials said.