DRBA Executive Director transition delayed as Thomas J. Cook continues leadership

Following the unexpected withdrawal of incoming Executive Director Rashad Taylor, Thomas J. Cook will remain in his role as Executive Director (Photo by scott hewitt)

NEW CASTLE- A planned leadership transition at the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) has been postponed following the unexpected withdrawal of incoming Executive Director Rashad Taylor. As a result, Thomas J. Cook will remain in his role as Executive Director, a position he has held since 2017.

On March 18, 2025, the DRBA Commissioners adopted Resolution 25-16, appointing Taylor as the Authority’s 6th Executive Director, with an effective start date of April 2, 2025. However, due to unforeseen personal circumstances, Taylor has declined the position, prompting the DRBA leadership to ask Cook to continue guiding the agency.

While the search for a long-term successor continues, the DRBA looks forward to continued stability and progress under Cook’s proven leadership.

“It’s business as usual at the DRBA,”  James Salmon, DRBA  director of communications wrote in a statement. 

“We remain committed to our mission and look forward to continued progress under Mr. Cook’s experienced leadership.”

Cook has overseen numerous critical projects and milestones, including the successful return of commercial air service to Wilmington ILG Airport, the complete redecking of the northbound span of the Delaware Memorial Bridge, and the construction of a ship collision protection system designed to prevent disasters like the recent Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. He  also spearheaded the design of a next-generation vessel for the Cape May–Lewes Ferry and led the Authority to its first bond rating upgrade in over 20 years.

The DRBA operates key transportation assets, including the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry, and multiple airports in Delaware and New Jersey.

Claudia Estrada

Claudia is a Philadelphia-based journalist and reporter passionate about storytelling that informs and engages the community. Claudia, a proud Temple University graduate, has built a career covering impactful stories and creating compelling content across digital and print media platforms. With a strong background in writing, editing, and research, Claudia has worked on various topics, from local news to in-depth features, always striving to deliver meaningful and accurate reporting.