In Memoriam: Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA)

Rep. Gerald Edward Connolly (D-VA) died May 21, 2025. He was a steadfast supporter of public transportation.

Connolly served as chairman of the board of the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC), chairman of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC), and was chairman of the board of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG). He also chaired the region’s Emergency Preparedness Taskforce and represented Fairfax County on the board of the Virginia Association of Counties (VaCo), where he also served as president.

In 2006, Conolly received APTA’s Local Distinguished Service Award for significant contributions at the local level to public transportation through policy, legislative initiative, and leadership.

“The American Public Transportation Association is deeply saddened by the passing of U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia. Our industry has lost a true champion,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “In 2006, APTA recognized Rep. Connolly with our Local Distinguished Service Award for his significant contributions as chairman of both the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. His commitment to public transportation never wavered throughout his career.

“Rep. Connolly was instrumental in extending Metrorail’s Silver Line to Dulles Airport, a visionary project that continues to serve tens of thousands daily. His leadership transformed Northern Virginia, demonstrating how strategic transit investments create economic opportunity and improve community livability.

“On the national stage, he was a powerful advocate for robust federal transit funding and his pragmatic, forward-thinking approach to public transportation policy will be deeply missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family, staff, and constituents. APTA remains committed to honoring Rep. Connolly’s legacy by continuing to advocate for the public transportation priorities he so passionately championed.”