North Central Regional Transit District Appoints Nicholas A. Sofoul as New Executive Director

The North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) announced today that Nicholas A. Sofoul, AICP, has been appointed as its new Executive Director, effective October 31, 2025. Sofoul will succeed longtime Executive Director Anthony Mortillaro, who is retiring after more than a decade of distinguished service leading the NCRTD Blue Bus system.

Sofoul has 15 years of transit industry experience from bus and rail systems on the east and west coast. He most recently served as Director of Strategic Planning for the North County Transit District (NCTD) in San Diego County, California. In this role, he led initiatives to expand regional mobility options, return a 450+ employee bus division from contracted to direct operations, and advance projects that improved coordination between bus, rail, and emerging mobility services. His leadership played a central role in ridership growth efforts, including the development of service strategies and community partnerships that improved customer experience and reversed pandemic-related declines.

Recognized nationally as one of Mass Transit’s “Best and Brightest 40 Under 40” leaders, Sofoul brings to the Blue Bus a proven record of success in planning, policy, and public engagement. His expertise will guide the District as it embarks on new initiatives, including the development of a Rural Rapid Transit network and the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles.

“I am honored to be selected as Executive Director of the NCRTD and sincerely grateful to the Board of Directors for their trust and confidence,” said Nicholas Sofoul, incoming Executive Director. “I welcome the opportunities ahead and look forward to working with the dedicated Blue Bus team and community partners to advance NCRTD’s role as a vital catalyst for regional mobility, economic growth, and quality of life throughout the district.”

“The Board is extremely pleased to welcome Nicholas Sofoul as our new Executive Director,” said Lee Garcia, NCRTD Board Chair and Santa Fe City Councilor. “His proven leadership at the North County Transit District and his success in driving ridership growth, along with his national recognition as an emerging voice in transit innovation, make him uniquely qualified to lead NCRTD into the future. As we continue to expand service, modernize our fleet, and improve access for the communities we serve, Nicholas will help us build on the strong foundation established under Anthony Mortillaro’s leadership.”

Under Mortillaro’s tenure, the Blue Bus system has grown into one of the most respected rural transit providers in the nation, offering free and affordable mobility options that connect northern New Mexico’s communities. With Sofoul’s appointment, NCRTD looks ahead to advancing its Rural Rapid Transit project, transitioning to cleaner vehicle technologies, and strengthening its role as a vital community partner.

With headquarters in Española, New Mexico, The North Central Regional Transit District Blue Bus™ connects communities, pueblos, and tribes across 10,000 square miles throughout north central New Mexico, serving residents in Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, Taos, and Los Alamos counties as well as eight Northern Pueblos and the Jicarilla Apache Nation. Additional services connect communities in San Juan, Mora, and San Miguel Counties. The District operates 29 routes, with a mix of fixed-routes, on-demand MyBlue™ ridesharing service, and paratransit/ADA services. Visit RideTheBlueBus.com to learn more or call 866.206.0754