Stunning Shakeup at MARTA: CEO Resigns Amid Immigration Hurdles

Agency Faces Leadership Crossroads Ahead of Major Transit Expansion & FIFA World Cup

In a sudden and stunning announcement, MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood has stepped down, citing immigration-related complications and personal reasons. The MARTA Board confirmed the resignation during its July 17 meeting, marking a significant leadership shift just as the agency prepares for some of the most high-stakes projects in its history.

Greenwood’s departure comes at a critical time as Atlanta is ramping up transit infrastructure in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, MARTA is working to rebuild ridership following pandemic-era declines, and a $2.7 billion expansion plan is in motion, including BRT lines, station upgrades, and long-term capital projects.

Greenwood, a Canadian national, ceased working on June 18, the date his Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expired. Though his Canadian visa remains valid and a green card is pending, Greenwood said he stepped aside “out of an abundance of caution.”

In a statement, MARTA praised Greenwood’s service and noted that he had individually notified board members and signed over authority to his successor before stepping down. He pointed to Greenwood’s Legacy. Since becoming MARTA’s permanent CEO in 2022, Greenwood led several major efforts:

• Achieved a AAA bond rating for the agency
• Launched MARTA’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line
• Initiated a comprehensive rail-station rehabilitation program
• Received national recognition for MARTA’s performance.

However, ridership dipped by 6% in 2024, while other U.S. transit systems saw an average 24% rebound.

The board of directors agreed to pay the balance of Greenwood’s contract term and severance set forth in his employment agreement.

They also passed a resolution appointing MARTA Chief Customer Experience Officer Rhonda Allen as acting general manager and CEO until an interim manager is selected. According to the MARTA website, Allen began her 25-year career at MARTA as an engineering intern, including stints in engineering, construction management, project management and strategic planning roles.

MARTA Board Chair Jennifer Ide says a national search is underway, calling it “a challenge” given the agency’s high visibility and ongoing projects. As for the community, transit advocacy groups praised Greenwood’s work but expressed concern that the leadership change could stall critical projects.

Beltline Rail Now, a local transit watchdog group, urged the board to stay focused on capital preservation and ensure projects like the Streetcar East Extension don’t fall by the wayside.

With MARTA playing a central role in metro Atlanta’s future—especially in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup—residents and riders will be watching closely. Allen’s interim leadership and the search for a permanent CEO will likely shape how quickly and successfully MARTA can:

• Deliver new transit options
• Improve system reliability
• Expand accessibility and equity across the region

Spotlight will continue covering MARTA’s leadership transition and what it means for taxpayers, commuters, and Metro Atlanta’s long-term transit strategy.