The New York City native’s revenue-generating strategy minimized fare increases and maintained public transportation’s affordability.
An Unwavering Cheerleader for the City
In many ways, Richard Ravitch was seen as one of the architects of the modern mass transit system.
Current MTA Chair and CEO, Janno Leiber, extolled Ravitch’s legacy, recognizing his instrumental role in the development of the MTA and his commitment to fostering New York’s revival, starting in the late 1970s.
Ravitch was also renowned for his steadfast leadership during crises.
Despite never being elected, he provided steady and savvy guidance, acting as the city’s tireless cheerleader.
This was evident in 2009, when Governor David Paterson recruited him to steady the ship as Lieutenant Governor amidst the tumult of Eliot Spitzer’s resignation.
Tributes Flow for Ravitch
Across New York, tributes poured in for Richard Ravitch.
Governor Kathy Hochul described him as “a titan of New York’s civic world” and credited him for his “wisdom and thoughtful advice.” Former NYC Mayor, Mike Bloomberg, also acknowledged the city’s “great debt of gratitude” to Ravitch.
