UTA names new executive director

UTA new executive director Carolyn Gonot.

After an extensive search, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has named a new executive director: Carolyn Gonot.

Gonot has spent the last 25 years in the transit industry, most recently with the Santa Clara Valley Transit Authority where she spent the last 22 years. At Santa Clara, Gonot led the funding and planning for the 16-mile, six-station extension of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system into San Jose. She has a background in civil engineering.

“Gonot’s breadth of experience in the transit industry is extensive, ranging from service and program planning to managing and implementing major capital projects,” said Carlton Christensen, UTA Board Chair. “Her decades of transit experience give her an understanding of the entire transit agency, and she has the leadership qualities to ensure UTA continues to improve its service to the community.”

Gonot hopes to help the UTA overcome challenges dealing with diversifying demographics, significant population growth and rapid economic development. The Wasatch Front population is estimated to double by 2050.

Pending a board approval, Gonot will assume her position of executive director in August.