The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced the first slate of members of the MTA’s Major Construction Review Unit (MCRU). The newly appointed review panel includes a diverse cross-section of experts and industry leaders in design, construction, technology, engineering, project management, urban planning and academia. The MCRU, mandated by the New York State Legislature in 2019, will provide input on large-scale projects and signal upgrades in the MTA’s historic 2020-2024 Capital Plan, bringing fresh eyes and knowledge of best industry practices to improve outcomes. Additional panel members will be appointed going forward.

The role of the MCRU is advisory and will convene in panels of three to five members to support efficiency and innovation in execution of large projects. The unit will provide objective advice and recommendations to the MTA project CEO, including information on the latest tools, techniques, materials, methods and practices.

“The MTA has identified a number of outstanding candidates to serve on the Major Construction Review Unit who will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help the MTA deliver projects better,” said MTA Chief Development Officer Janno Lieber. “We expect the panels will review crucial projects like Penn Access, the Flushing line station work, East Side Access and more and will serve as an integral part of our work on the historic 2020-2024 Capital Plan.”

The MCRU is being led by Catherine T. Sheridan, P.E., a Transformation Project Manager with the MTA who has nearly three decades of experience in the transportation industry. Her career includes serving as the Chief Engineer for the New York State Thruway Authority, and positions at the New York State Canal Corp. and Dept. of Transportation. Sheridan served in the United States Army as a Combat Engineer and was honorably discharged as a Captain.

“I am excited to lead the MCRU at a critical time in the MTA’s history. This review unit will play a major part in helping us transform project delivery for New Yorkers,” said Catherine Sheridan, Lead for the Major Construction Review Unit and Transformation Project Manager. “We put together a panel of esteemed leaders in their fields and I am confident their expertise will help us move forward and continue the modernization of the MTA.”

The 20 new members of the MCRU are: