Everyone at RPA was very sad to learn of the passing earlier this spring of Steve Denning, a committed and inspiring RPA Board Member. Steve joined RPA’s board in 2018 and worked with us to advance policies that would sustain the region in the long-term. He was a visionary, always pushing us to set higher goals rather than settling for half-measures. Steve was especially committed to congestion pricing, which he saw as a critical step to integrating, rebuilding, and modernizing New York’s transportation system.

“The goal,” he used to say to me, ​“is to deliver the greatest transportation system in the world. This is New York! We must not settle for anything less!”

His guidance inspired and focused us as we pushed forward, and he certainly shared in the success of the policy. But I know he would have wanted us to keep working, to improve it. He was always looking for the next opportunity or challenge.

Scott Rechler recalled how Steve helped focus RPA’s work and supported him during his tenure as RPA’s Chair. ​“I always appreciated Steve’s insights, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the region…. He was a true mensch, and our community is better because of his contributions.”

We are all saddened by his passing and grateful for his counsel and inspiration, which will continue to guide RPA’s work for years to come.