The City of Glendale has appointed Ryan Lee as the new Director of Transportation. Lee, who comes with substantial experience as Glendale’s Director of Government Relations, is set to oversee the city’s transportation department, including the Glendale airport, transit services, and pavement management program. His responsibilities will also extend to the maintenance of traffic signals, road signs, and street striping, as well as to the strategic planning efforts in traffic engineering and city school education programs.
In his previous role, Lee has been instrumental in negotiating with different governmental agencies to significantly secure a funding stream for Glendale’s transportation requirements. His adeptness in these negotiations has played a part to successfully bring a whopping $151 million from the Proposition 479 Regional Transportation Sales Tax into the Glendale transportation coffers. In his new position, Lee plans to directly manage activities and staff involved in essential city infrastructure, an announcement Glendale city officials believe will positively impact the area’s economic development strategies and public safety.
According to a statement released, Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps expressed confidence in Lee’s ability, explaining, "Ryan Lee is a proven leader in Glendale and has worked alongside our transportation staff in every area of transit and transportation. He understands the vital connection between transportation and successful economic development strategies. He is fully prepared to help Glendale deliver on our significant investment in transportation infrastructure and services, which increase our residents’ quality of life and ensure their safety."
Lee’s experience spans over a decade, where his advocacy and collaborative approach have been key in positioning Glendale for transportation success. Beyond the securing of funds, Lee is set to contribute to the development of Glendale’s Transportation and Airport master plans, as well as the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). In an expression of enthusiasm for his new role at the Transportation Department, Lee told Glendale's official website, “I am excited to join an incredible group of transportation leaders who are widely recognized as top experts in their fields. The Glendale City Council has made transportation infrastructure and the safety of our residents a top priority, and I am committed to making sure that the Transportation Department accomplishes that.”
Lee holds an academic background in public administration, having earned his master’s from Arizona State University, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Arizona University. His educational qualifications and extensive involvement in the realm of city transportation prepare him well for the challenges that come with managing Glendale’s intricate transportation network.
