DC Metro chief announces retirement

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) announced Tuesday that its general manager and chief executive officer will be stepping down from his role.

Paul J. Wiedefeld will retire from his position in six months after more than six years at WMATA.

"Forty plus years in transportation teaches you that there is no set mile marker for this decision, but given the seismic shifts happening in transit and the region, Metro needs a leader who can commit to several years of service and set a new course," Wiedefeld said in statement announcing his departure.

He added, "This gives the Board time to identify a successor and ensures an orderly management transition."

Wiedefeld will continue to work on projects including opening the Silver Line extension and relocating moving Metro's headquarters in the period of time before he leaves WMATA.

Metro Board Chairman Paul C. Smedberg said a national search will be conducted for Wiedefeld's replacement.

"There is no doubt that Paul Wiedefeld was the right man at the right time to guide Metro out of very dark days," Smedberg said. "Paul is an extraordinary executive and the Board deeply appreciates his effective leadership and, most recently, his collaboration with us as we worked together to overcome an unprecedented set of challenges during the pandemic."

Wiedefeld has faced criticism in recent years, notably following the "Unite the Right 2" rally in 2018 when D.C.'s largest Metro union called for Wiedefeld to step down, claiming he approved "special treatment" for white nationalist demonstrators.

WMATA denied allegations ahead of the protest, saying, "To be absolutely clear, Metro is not preparing a 'special train' for the private use of any group."