George Warrington facts for kids

George David Warrington (born September 19, 1952 – died December 24, 2007) was an important American transportation leader. He helped improve how people traveled in New Jersey and across the country. George Warrington worked for New Jersey Transit for 28 years. He eventually became its top leader, known as the executive director. He grew up in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey and finished Ridgefield Park High School in 1970.

George Warrington's Career in Transportation

Warrington Plaza, a public space near the Hoboken Terminal

George Warrington dedicated his career to making transportation better. He started working at New Jersey Transit in 1979. This was the same year the agency was created. He moved up through different roles. He became the vice president and general manager for New Jersey Transit's train services.

Leadership Roles in Transportation

From 1990 to 1992, George Warrington worked for the New Jersey Department of Transportation. He was a Deputy Commissioner there. This meant he helped oversee transportation projects in the state.

Later, from 1992 to 1994, he led the Delaware River Port Authority. He also led the Port Authority Transit Corporation. These groups manage bridges, tunnels, and public transport in the Delaware Valley area.

Leading Amtrak and New Jersey Transit

George Warrington then joined Amtrak, America's national passenger rail company. From 1994 to 1998, he was president of Amtrak's Northeast Corridor Business Unit. This part of Amtrak serves busy routes in the northeastern United States.

From 1998 to 2002, he became the overall President of Amtrak. After that, he returned to New Jersey Transit. He served as its executive director from 2002 until March 2007.

Later Work and Legacy

After leaving New Jersey Transit, George Warrington started a consulting firm. He continued to support big transportation projects. He was a strong supporter of the Access to the Region's Core (ARC) tunnel project. He also promoted park-and-ride options. These options allow people to drive to a station and then take public transport. He also worked to expand New Jersey Transit's passenger capacity. This meant making more room for people on trains and buses.

Remembering George Warrington

George Warrington passed away on December 24, 2007. He had been battling pancreatic cancer for eight months. To honor his contributions, New Jersey Transit and the city of Hoboken dedicated a plaza to him. This plaza is located at the Hoboken Terminal. It was named Warrington Plaza in spring 2008.