WEST CHESTER, PA — Josh Maxwell, Chair of the Chester County Board of Commissioners, has been elected Chairman of the Board of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) for fiscal year 2025. This organization is the federally-designated metropolitan planning entity for the Greater Philadelphia area.
Leading the Nine-County Region
Maxwell will oversee an 18-member board representing the nine counties in the Greater Philadelphia region. The board’s responsibilities include defining the duties of the DVRPC Executive Director and committees, establishing regional transportation policies, and determining how transportation funds are allocated.
A Vision for the Region
Ariella Maron, DVRPC Executive Director, expressed confidence in Maxwell’s leadership. “It has been a pleasure to work with Commissioner Maxwell, and I look forward to his leadership as we work together to realize our vision for a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable region,” Maron said. She highlighted his role in fostering cross-county and bi-state collaboration to tackle transportation, environmental, and economic challenges.
Commitment to Fair Funding
Maxwell emphasized the importance of fair distribution of transportation funds in Southeast Pennsylvania. “It’s my firm commitment to ensure that Southeast PA, Pennsylvania’s economic driver, receives its fair share of transportation funding,” Maxwell said. He also stressed the need for efficient use of these funds.
Maxwell expressed his enthusiasm for his new role. “I am honored to be elected as DVRPC Chair for the coming year and look forward to working with staff and fellow board members to advance transportation projects and attract Federal funds for public transportation projects that are crucial to our region.”
Broad Policy Knowledge
Tim Philps, Executive Director of the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), praised Maxwell’s appointment. “The Board of Directors of TMACC are excited that Commissioner Maxwell has been elected Chair of DVRPC. He brings to this role a broad perspective of public policy knowledge, especially in health and human services,” Philps said. He noted Maxwell’s support for public transportation, trails, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and well-informed land-use planning.
About DVRPC
Formed in 1965, the DVRPC provides coordinated planning for the orderly growth and development of southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. The region includes Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania, and Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer counties in New Jersey. The DVRPC focuses on regional policy and capital funding issues for transportation, economic development, and environment and land use.
Maxwell’s leadership as DVRPC Chair is expected to have a significant positive impact on the region, bringing a fresh perspective to ongoing efforts to improve transportation and regional development.
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