The very first public conversation I participated in, after moving to Florida, was a panel about the future of transportation heralded by the post-pandemic reopening of Brightline. Everyone on this panel, held at Brightline’s West Palm Beach station, went on to work closely together over the coming years to envision the future within a rapidly growing Palm Beach County. We also became fast friends. Fast forward to 2026, and photos of that December 2021 event shows a future WPB Mobility Coalition (WPBgo) Founding Executive Director (me), a future WPBgo Board Chair (Raphael Clemente), a future board member (Kim Delaney), as well as its second executive director, and first person serving in that role in a full-time capacity, Chelsea Reed.
That’s right. Effective Monday, September 14, Chelsea Reed, the former mayor of Palm Beach Gardens, former Palm Beach County MPO Chair and former League of Cities president, is the new leader of the Mobility Coalition.
What We Have Built Together
It has been a privilege to help lead WPBgo through an important period of growth. The organization is the most substantial Transportation Management Association in the Southeast, with the exception of some Atlanta-based organizations.
Meanwhile, our board, staff, and partners have turned ideas into programs that help employees and residents access more reliable, affordable, and convenient transportation. We have built relationships with employers, local governments, transportation agencies, and community organizations. We have also strengthened the Mobility Coalition as a place for leaders to work together on the transportation issues affecting Palm Beach County.
I am proud of that progress, but even more proud of the team and partnerships behind it. WPBgo’s work has never depended on one person. It has grown because people throughout our community have continued to show up, contribute ideas, and help move the mission forward.
Why This Is the Right Time
WPBgo has reached a point where it needs full-time executive leadership. As I take on a new full time role in Broward County related to improving transportation there, Chelsea is taking on the shepherding of transportation progress from the vantage point of this amazing public-private partnership we call WPBgo. Chelsea’s appointment gives the organization that capacity while allowing it to build on the programs, relationships, and foundation already in place.
If the choice were mine, I could not have picked a more perfect fit than Chelsea Reed. She’s been one of my closest friends and collaborators for my entire South Florida professional career. She understands local government, transportation, organizational leadership, and the importance of bringing different sectors together. She also knows Palm Beach County and many of the people and organizations central to WPBgo’s work.
The Mission Continues
Although I am stepping down as Executive Director, I am not leaving WPBgo. As Strategic Advisor, I will continue supporting our board of directors, Chelsea, the team, and several of WPBgo’s key priorities and relationships. I will also help make the introductions and connections needed for a smooth transition.
This is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, but the mission continues. I am grateful to everyone who has been part of WPBgo’s growth and excited to pass the baton to a leader I know and trust.
Please join me in welcoming Chelsea to WPBgo.
Written by Jonathan Hopkins
Founding Executive Director & Strategic Advisor, WPBgo
