The City of Raleigh has announced the appointment of Het Patel as its new Transit Assistant Director, effective June 28.
A seasoned urban transportation planner and respected leader in Raleigh’s transit ecosystem, Patel steps into the role previously held by David Eatman, who served in the position for six years.
With more than six years of service to the City’s Department of Transportation, Patel has become a key player in shaping Raleigh’s rapidly evolving public transit system.
He began his journey with the department as a Senior Transit Planner and was later promoted to Transit Planning Supervisor.
During that time, he guided numerous initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, expanding service coverage, and increasing operational efficiency across the city’s bus and transit routes.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to take a leadership role within the organization and continue to make a difference in providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation options for the community,” said Patel.
“This city is undergoing rapid growth, and transit is a critical part of how we keep people connected.”
In his new position, Patel will be responsible for overseeing the planning, operations, and long-term strategic development of Raleigh’s transit system.
He will report directly to Transportation Director Paul Kallam and work out of Raleigh Union Station, the city’s growing multimodal transportation hub that reflects the city’s broader transit ambitions.
Kallam expressed strong confidence in Patel’s appointment. “He brings a strong sense of collaboration, problem-solving, and vision to our team.
Raleigh is growing fast, and Het’s leadership will help our transit division rise to meet the needs of our community,” he stated.
The timing of Patel’s promotion comes as Raleigh experiences sustained population and infrastructure growth.
With increasing demand for public transit options and multimodal connectivity, Patel is expected to lead efforts to modernize the city’s transit network, integrating technology, sustainability, and community engagement into every layer of service.
City officials also noted Patel’s emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility throughout his previous roles.
He has championed initiatives aimed at making transit services more equitable, particularly for underserved neighborhoods, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
As he steps into this new leadership chapter, Patel’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm from both city officials and transit stakeholders.
His mix of technical knowledge, management experience, and passion for public service makes him a fitting choice to guide Raleigh’s transit future
A Career Dedicated to Public Mobility
Patel’s career reflects a broader national trend of cities investing in transit leaders who combine data-driven planning with a human-centered approach.
His track record includes strategic route planning, service redesigns based on rider feedback, and collaboration with regional transit authorities to expand coverage.
Colleagues describe him as a thoughtful leader who listens to community voices and prioritizes long-term sustainability alongside short-term improvements.
Looking Ahead
As Raleigh continues to grow, the importance of efficient, reliable, and forward-thinking transit leadership becomes increasingly vital.
Patel’s appointment signals a continued commitment by the City to invest in public infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of its residents.
With his appointment officially starting June 28, all eyes will be on how Patel guides the next phase of Raleigh’s transit journey, one rooted in innovation, accessibility, and community connection.
