Incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced on Wednesday the appointment of Julia Kerson as the new Deputy Mayor for Operations in New York City. Kerson, who currently serves as a deputy to the state director of operations, will oversee a range of critical departments including the Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Sanitation, Department of Transportation (DOT), and New York City Emergency Management.
Kerson brings significant experience to her new role, having previously worked with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) where she led major projects such as Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway. Her contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic were notable; she was part of the city’s response team, establishing a hotel program for healthcare workers and negotiating contracts for hotel operations.
In her new capacity, Kerson will address pressing issues facing the city, including climate change and affordability. Mayor Mamdani emphasized the importance of having an experienced leader in this role, stating, “To deliver safe roads, clean streets, and fast buses, we need a Deputy Mayor of Operations who is experienced, hungry, and tireless in the pursuit of public excellence.” He expressed confidence in Kerson’s ability to help achieve the city’s affordability agenda.
Mike Flynn is also expected to be announced as the new commissioner of the DOT. Flynn, a member of the Riders Alliance, will take over from current commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. Betsy Plum, executive director of the Riders Alliance, praised both appointments, indicating that they will foster greater community engagement in transit safety and affordability.
“This moment calls for a new way of engaging communities, one rooted in real organizing,” Plum stated. She added that the Riders Alliance looks forward to collaborating with the new DOT to advance “stalled projects” from the previous administration. Plum highlighted the necessity of prioritizing free bus services, asserting, “Fast and free buses can’t be an aspiration tucked behind competing priorities. They must be the measure of success.”
This announcement follows Mamdani’s earlier appointment on December 31, 2023, of Kamar Samuels, the superintendent of Manhattan’s District 3, as chancellor of the city’s public schools. As Mamdani prepares to take office, he continues to outline a vision for an administration focused on improving essential services for New Yorkers.
The transition team of Mayor Mamdani has been contacted for comments regarding Flynn’s appointment, and a response is anticipated.
