Ex-NYC subways chief Andy Byford quits London gig, plans return to US

New York Metropolis’s “Prepare Daddy” is coming residence.

Former MTA New York Metropolis Transit president Andy Byford, who ran town’s subways and buses for simply over two years, stated Thursday he’ll resign subsequent month as prime canine at London’s transit company after a equally temporary stint.

Byford — whose recognition amongst New Yorkers earned him the “Prepare Daddy” tag — stated in an announcement he’s shifting again to the US, however didn’t say the place or what he’d be doing.

“I've been blessed to have had such an incredible transport and public service journey and now's the proper time to bow out and resume life within the US with my spouse,” he stated.

In his 27 months main the London company, the 33-year railroad vet oversaw the completion of a long-delayed and over-budget Elizabeth Line challenge, which he toured earlier this yr with the late Queen Elizabeth II in one among her remaining public appearances.

“The opening of the Elizabeth line was, doubtless, the spotlight of my profession — made really poignant because it was one of many final main occasions attended by Her Majesty the Queen,” he stated in his assertion.

Andy Byford ran NYC’s subways and buses for simply over two years earlier than taking a job with London’s transit company.

Gregory P. Mango

Andy Byford’s recognition amongst New Yorkers earned him the “Prepare Daddy” nickname.

Taidgh Barron

“It was an honour to fulfill her, and an honour to supervise the transport preparations for the ceremonial occasions to mark her passing.”

Byford stop the MTA in February 2020 amid a long-running conflict of personalities with then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who Byford groused made the job “insupportable.”

He took over Transport for London, or TfL, the next June, taking up tasks that included managing London’s subway in addition to its buses, taxis and streets.

The native Brit, whose profession started in London, has since confronted the identical pandemic income challenges that plague his former MTA colleagues. With ridership down, Byford sought extra funding to maintain trains working — and in August, TfL reached an settlement with the UK authorities to “keep away from large-scale cuts.”

Andy Byford and then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson attend an occasion to mark the completion of London’s Crossrail challenge at Paddington station on Might 17.

REUTERS

Andy Byford talks with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Edward at Paddington station.

AP

MTA board rep Andrew Albert stated New York may benefit from Byford’s presence, although perhaps in a distinct position since his outdated job is taken.

“He's coming to the US, that’s an amazing signal,” Albert stated. “All of us liked it when he was right here. I don’t wish to take something away from [current NYCT president] Wealthy Davey, who I feel is doing a positive job.”