The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) board has selected Nathaniel P. “Nat” Ford Sr. as its next president and CEO, a decision met with strong endorsement from Lenny Curry, the former mayor of Jacksonville, Florida. Curry, who worked closely with Ford for eight years during his tenure leading the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), praised Ford’s extensive experience and leadership in public transportation.
Ford, who has led JTA through significant growth and innovation, brings a record of securing substantial funding and advancing regional transit projects. Under his direction, JTA obtained more than $400 million in federal discretionary grants and supported a local gas tax extension projected to raise around $1 billion for infrastructure in northeast Florida. During his tenure, JTA expanded its regional influence, launched the First Coast Flyer bus rapid transit system, opened the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center, and revitalized the St. Johns River Ferry.
Curry highlighted Ford’s inclusive leadership style, noting that Ford actively engages with staff at all levels, riders, and governance bodies. He emphasized that Ford listens to diverse perspectives across racial, political, and socioeconomic lines, which Curry said fosters public trust and improves transit service.
Beyond transportation, Ford played a role in positioning Jacksonville as a hub for emerging mobility technologies. He contributed to attracting HOLON’s autonomous vehicle manufacturing plant, a project expected to generate more than 800 jobs and deliver significant economic benefits, including an estimated $87 million in annual impact.
Curry acknowledged that public leadership often invites scrutiny but urged that assessments of Ford consider his full body of work rather than isolated criticisms. He argued that DART requires an experienced leader capable of fostering collaboration among its member cities, engaging with employees and riders, enhancing revenue streams, and restoring confidence in the agency’s future.
The appointment arrives as DART seeks to navigate the evolving transit landscape in North Texas, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term mobility goals. Curry expressed confidence that Ford’s proven track record in Jacksonville can translate effectively to the Dallas area’s distinct opportunities and scale.
Ford’s leadership will be closely watched as he assumes the helm of one of the nation’s largest transit agencies, with expectations focused on leveraging innovation, economic development, and inclusive service delivery to meet the needs of Dallas and the broader North Texas region.