Transit Expert Thomas Williams Joins CDM Smith

CHICAGO, Illinois—CDM Smith is pleased to announce that Thomas Williams, PE, VMA, has joined CDM Smith’s trans­porta­tion team as a transit planning and design expert. Williams brings more than 37 years of experience in planning and design, including metro systems, light rail transit, commuter rail, bus rapid transit (BRT), streetcar and heavy-haul freight rail. Williams’ extensive experience with the Federal Transit Admin­is­tra­tion’s capital investment grants program and preparation of National Envi­ron­men­tal Policy Act documents will play a pivotal role in providing high-quality services for CDM Smith’s trans­porta­tion clients.

Williams is well-versed in integrating complex transit systems and identifying innovative solutions that help clients meet their goals. He has worked on numerous transit projects in the U.S. and Canada, helping with three projects within Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Ahead program, bringing BRT to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and contribut­ing to many more projects encouraging transit modern­iza­tion and efficiency.

Williams’ strong knowledge of transit systems and dedication to enhancing everyday life for commuters and residents makes him a great addition to CDM Smith’s trans­porta­tion team. “It’s rewarding to see designs become operational and see the impact they have on people’s lives,” explains Williams. “Transit helps shape the city and improve people’s quality of life. If we can shorten commute time, reduce congestion or lower operation costs, we’ve done our job.” 

CDM Smith provides lasting and integrated solutions in water, environment, trans­porta­tion, energy and facilities to public and private clients worldwide. As a full-service engineering and construc­tion firm, we deliver exceptional client service, quality results and enduring value across the entire project life cycle.

Williams holds membership with the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association, the Institute of Trans­porta­tion Engineers and the Society of American Value Engineers. He is a certified Value Methodology Associate (VMA) and has facilitated 14 value engineering studies, including ones for commuter rail, light rail and urban heavy rail transit.