Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton to Retire in January 2026
After Bridgegate, Rick Cotton led the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey through nearly a decade of reform. He will retire in January 2026. Under Cotton, the bi-state agency that runs the region’s airports, bridges, tunnels, seaports, and PATH train system upgraded and reorganized its infrastructure.
In August 2017, Cotton took over a public trust organization with complex political issues after a big leadership turnover. Bridgegate, which restricted George Washington Bridge lanes for political motives, prompted an investigation and widespread criticism of the agency. Cotton promoted accountability, openness, and long-term planning.
“Since 2017, I have devoted all my energy to this profoundly important work,” Cotton stated of his term. Highly rewarding and exhausting. Nothing lasts forever. After finishing our 10-year capital plan, which will drive the agency’s ambitious goals until 2035, it’s time to hand over.”
Cotton pioneered various projects. A major example is the $11 billion Port Authority Bus Terminal replacement in Midtown Manhattan, built on the site. The May 2025 groundbreaking of this project is expected to increase commuter and regional connectivity.
Airport modernization used cotton. He led a $8 billion public-private collaboration to restore LaGuardia Airport’s terminals, allowing growth to proceed. The refurbished LaGuardia is a top US airport. Terminal A’s $2.7 billion renovation at Newark Liberty International Airport was acclaimed globally. Reconstructing Newark Terminal B is also planned.
There were challenges during his term. Controlling COVID-19 budget deficits, negotiating contracts with labor unions with long-standing unresolved problems, and managing politically sensitive projects across two states required careful planning and leadership. Cotton implemented austerity steps to stabilize the agency’s budget and finish important programs.
Politicians and transportation officials praise cotton. Kevin O’Toole, former New Jersey State Senator and board chairman, considered Cotton one of the most dedicated and disciplined public servants. Port Authority Vice Chair Jeffrey Lynford highlighted Cotton’s clarity and stability during difficult circumstances, which stabilized the agency and restored public confidence.
After nearly nine years as Port Authority CEO, Cotton will resign. Soon, officials will announce a replacement and work with Cotton to ease the transfer. The Port Authority will benefit decades from his infrastructure planning, regional transportation, and agency transparency.
Cotton balanced long-term vision and practical execution, increasing the economy, improving passenger services, and restoring faith in a major transportation agency. His retirement is a milestone for the Port Authority and prepares the next generation to improve transportation.
Sources:
NY/NJ Port Authority official remarks
Public records and announcements from NY and NJ state governments
Former NJ State Senator Kevin O’Toole statements
Eno Center for Transportation research
