Metrolinx board chair Robert Prichard is stepping down from his position “effective immediately,” according to a statement issued on Thursday.
“Serving Metrolinx for the past nine years, first as president and CEO and then as chair of the board of directors for seven years, has ranked with the great privileges of my life,” Prichard said in the statement.
“Much has been accomplished, but a great deal of work lies ahead to achieve the full promise and possibilities for mobility in the region following our Regional Transportation Plan. With the election of a new government for Ontario, now is the right time for a change of leadership for the board of directors.”
Metrolinx is a regional transportation authority that was created in 2006 by the previous Ontario Liberal government. It oversees GO Transit, UP Express and the PRESTO fare card program. Metrolinx also coordinates regional transportation planning.
Prichard, who is also chair of the business law firm Torys and chair of the Bank of Montreal, said the next chair will need to “work closely with the government on its priorities for continuing to deliver the transit infrastructure and services the region needs.”
It’s not clear what specifically prompted his departure on Thursday.
Ontario Minister of Transportation John Yakabuski thanked Prichard in a brief statement released Thursday afternoon, saying the government is looking for Prichard’s replacement.
“A search is already underway for a highly capable and qualified individual who will implement Premier Doug Ford’s transportation plan for the people,” the statement said.
Bryan Davies, who serves as the board’s vice chair, will assume the chair’s duties and authority until a chair is appointed by the new PC government.