Matthew Tucker to Lead HDR’s Global Transit Program

After three decades of public transportation service, Matthew Tucker has joined HDR to lead the firm’s top ranked global transit program.

As global transit director, Tucker will set the vision and direction for continued growth of HDR’s transit program including expanding advisory and technical services to best serve HDR’s clients and their communities. He will be responsible for more than 600 global transit employees who provide a diversified portfolio of services tailored to the needs of bus, streetcar, commuter rail, light rail, subway and inter-city passenger rail projects and programs worldwide.

“My transition to HDR represents a new chapter in my career in transportation,” Tucker said. “I am excited about working with the talented people at HDR to inspire and deliver transformational change for the public transportation industry. The opportunities are endless — from multimodal integration improvements and innovative project delivery to implementing zero emission technologies. Together with our partners in the public sector, we can make great things possible for the communities we serve.”

From 2008 to 2023, Tucker was the CEO of the North County (San Diego) Transit District, where he provided strategic direction and oversight necessary to deliver transit service. During Tucker’s tenure, NCTD constructed a new downtown COASTER rail station; established a robust real estate development program; replaced its entire fleet with new locomotives; and advanced the agency’s transition to zero emissions bus fleets.

Prior to NCTD, Tucker served as the executive director of the Virginia Department of Rail & Public Transportation, the chief operating officer of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, deputy public transit director for the city of Phoenix, and deputy general manager of the Greater Richmond Transit Company. Tucker has also served several appointments for the American Public Transportation Association, including past secretary/treasurer and vice-chair of the board of directors. He currently chairs APTA’s legislative committee.

“As we continue to build upon our past success and implement new initiatives to support career development, delivery innovation, and program growth, I am very excited to welcome Matt to HDR,” said Chris LaTuso, HDR transportation market strategy director. “Matt has been a partner in the transit industry for many years. I look forward to working with him to continue building a thriving and resilient transit program that offers professional opportunities for our staff and exceptional service to our clients.”

HDR assists transit clients with everything from navigating funding to managing program development and design to providing construction management for new and established systems. HDR’s wide-ranging portfolio includes managing the San Diego Mid-Coast Corridor, Project Connect in Austin, the Ontario Line in Toronto, the Lowcountry Bus Rapid Transit program in Charleston, South Carolina, and consulting on every phase of the new Kansas City modern streetcar and its extension.

About HDR  

For over a century, HDR has partnered with clients to shape communities and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our expertise spans more than 11,000 employees in more than 200 locations around the world — and counting. Our engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services bring an impressive breadth of knowledge to every project. Our optimistic approach to finding innovative solutions defined our past and drives our future. For more information, please visit www.hdrinc.com.