Valley Regional Transit CEO Elaine Clegg nominated by President Joe Biden to Amtrak Board of Directors

VRT CEO Elaine Clegg standing outside the Boise Depot

VRT is proud to announce the nomination of CEO Elaine Clegg by President Joe Biden to the Amtrak Board of Directors. This appointment reflects Clegg’s leadership, dedication to public transportation, and commitment to advancing the nation’s rail infrastructure.

With over two decades of experience in transportation planning and policy, Clegg would bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the appointment. Her visionary approach to sustainable transportation solutions has contributed to VRT’s growth as it develops a better bus network, updates infrastructure, and implements new services.

“We are thrilled to see Elaine recognized for her exceptional leadership and passion for public transit,” said Jarom Wagoner, Chair of the VRT Board of Directors. “Her nomination to the Amtrak Board of Directors is a testament to her innovative thinking and tireless advocacy for improving transportation options for this region.”

As a member of the Amtrak Board of Directors, Clegg would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of passenger rail in the United States. Her strategic insights and collaborative approach would drive positive change and enhance the accessibility, reliability, and sustainability of Amtrak services.

“I am deeply honored to be given this opportunity by the Biden-Harris administration to join the Amtrak Board of Directors and contribute to the advancement of rail transportation in our country,” Clegg said. “I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to ensure Amtrak continues to serve the needs of passengers and communities across America. It is especially exciting to have a chance to serve at this time as passenger rail is making a comeback and to represent the West as it seeks rail expansion.”

Clegg’s nomination to the Amtrak Board of Directors reinforces VRT’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in public transportation. Per 49 USC Sec 24302, an individual nominated by the U.S. President and confirmed by the Senate to serve on the Amtrak Board is appointed for a term of five years. Clegg’s nomination awaits Senate confirmation.

About Elaine Clegg

As the CEO of Valley Regional Transit, Elaine provides leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for Treasure Valley’s public transportation authority and ensures the directives of the Board of Directors are achieved. She has been a public servant focused on transportation and land use for over 25 years. She served for nearly 20 years on the Boise City Council where she led many initiatives, including the Elaine Clegg City of Trees Challenge and various efforts to reestablish passenger rail in Idaho and the greater Northwest.

As a city council member, Clegg served on numerous boards, executive boards, advisory committees, and councils. She has held the Chair or President position on the boards of VRT, the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, the Association of Idaho Cities at the state level, the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and the National League of Cities Transportation Infrastructure Services Committee nationally.

Clegg also led the statewide non-profit Idaho Smart Growth, serving on national non-profit boards while advocating and planning for better transportation and improved land use policy and implementation, assisting over 50 Idaho communities to improve transportation plans, networks, and programs. Since 1998 Elaine has worked to improve access and mobility across modes in the policies of the reauthorizations of the Surface Transportation Bill, including gaining support for establishing the Safe Routes to School Program and enhancing the rail portion of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Born and raised in Boise Idaho, Elaine lives in Boise with her husband, where she frequently walks, bikes, rides the bus, and drives when she must. She loves spending time with her five children, their spouses, and her 14 grandchildren.

About VRT

VRT has been connecting people to the community they love to live in for over 20 years and is the regional public transportation authority for Ada and Canyon counties. VRT services include 22 bus routes in Ada and Canyon counties; on-demand bus service in Eagle, Nampa, and Caldwell; and numerous specialized transportation options.