Mortimer Down’s death has saddened the Down household and transportation business in the United States. how did he die?
Mortimer L. Downey III, often referred to as Mortimer Downey, was an icon in the field of urban mass transit and the longest serving U.S. Secretary of Transportation.
Downey served as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. Downey began his career in delivery at the port of New York and New Jersey, where he held various positions from 1960 to 1974.
He became the first Transportation Program Analyst for the US House Budget Committee.
From 1977 to 1981, he was Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs under President Jimmy Carter at the Department of Transportation.
He then joined the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) as CEO and Chief Financial Officer, where he played a key role in creating and implementing the company’s capital plan and improving its financial stability.
Mortimer has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions, including the President’s Award for Outstanding Executive.
Similarly, he also received the National Public Service Award from the National Academy of Public Administration and the Distinguished Service Award from the American Public Transportation Association.
Death of Mortimer Downey: How did the head of urban mass transit die?
Mortimer Leo Downey III, an icon in the field of urban mass transit and the longest-serving US Deputy Secretary of Transportation, died on October 31, 2023, at the age of 87.
A pioneer in the city’s mass transit has died after complications from a stroke, according to his family. Downey was born on August 9, 1936 in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Downey graduated with honors from Yale University in 1958 and received a master’s degree in public administration from New York University in 1966.
In 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed him as the US Deputy Secretary of Transportation, a position he held until 2001.
He was the longest serving person in this position. He oversaw essential initiatives such as completing the interstate freeway system, Amtrak improvements, aviation modernization, and advanced transportation safety.
He also served as Acting Secretary of Transportation during the first four days of the Bush administration from January 21, 2001, to January 24, 2001.
After leaving the public service, Down became a transport consultant and served on various forums and commissions relating to transport policy and planning.
He was on the Obama transition group and was considered a potential Transportation Secretary of the Obama administration.
He also served on the board of directors of the Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority (WMATA) from 2014 to 2016, and was its chairman from January 2015 to January 2016.
He has faced many challenges during his tenure, such as the fatal Red Line crash in 2009, persistent maintenance issues, budget shortfalls, and safety lapses that led to a takeover of federal oversight.
Downey was highly respected for his experience, expertise and management in transportation.
Mortimer L. Downey III obituary: A life dedicated to transportation
Mortimer L., a dedicated public servant recognized for his contributions to improving transportation. Downey has died at the age of 87.
He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Joyce Vander Maiden Downey, and two sons, Steven Michael Downey and Christopher Sean Downey.
Similarly, his daughter-in-law Jennifer Downey, grandchildren Matthew, Katherine, Andrew and Elizabeth Downey, daughter-in-law Barbara Vander Meyden and nephew David Vander Meyden are also saddened by his passing.
The family expressed their deep sorrow and gratitude in a statement, remembering Mortimer as an outstanding man who was dedicated to public service and precious family moments.
He thanked everyone for their condolences and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that the Mortimer L. Mortimer L. Downey Scholarship Fund, New York University Downey Fellowship and the Mortimer L. Donations may be made to various organizations, including the Downey Endowment Fund. , ,
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Mortimer Down’s legacy will live on through this contribution, honoring his dedication to improving training and transportation.