Mayor Appoints Midori Valdivia as Chair of Taxi and Limousine Commission
On Tuesday, Mayor Zoran Mamdani announced the appointment of Midori Valdivia as the new chair of the Taxi and Limousine Commission, challenging her to oversee the extensive network of rideshare vehicles and taxis in New York City.
Valdivia brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the deputy commissioner of the TLC, where she contributed to significant advancements in accessibility across the taxi fleet. This was noted during a press conference held Tuesday night at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal C taxi rank.
Mamdani mentioned that Valdivia is also the chief operating officer of the Coro New York Leadership Center, which focuses on civic training, and has held the position of senior advisor to the executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
“She has a deep love for transportation,” Mamdani remarked, adding that Valdivia views it as a cornerstone of New York’s vibrancy.
An advocate for congestion pricing, Valdivia expressed her views in a February opinion piece, arguing that the program enhances safety on the city’s streets. “We cannot let congestion again hamper our economy or put our streets at risk when effective solutions are nearby,” she stated, pointing out a decrease in car accidents in congestion zones.
A Princeton University graduate, Valdivia has been part of the MTA board since 2022 and worked as chief of staff to the transit agency’s CEO between 2018 and 2020.
“If approved, I am committed to shaping a rental economy that works for all New Yorkers, keeping drivers and passengers as priorities,” Valdivia commented to reporters after her nomination became public. She also indicated a commitment to supporting local small business owners and cultural institutions.
“In my recent private practice, I’ve been addressing wage theft issues with gig drivers and striving to make our city more livable, safer, and less congested,” she added.
For Valdivia, transportation represents freedom—it’s about how people navigate the city. “It’s our lifeline, and that’s why my professional efforts have centered on enhancing New York City’s transport systems,” she emphasized.
In addition to her public roles, Valdivia founded Midoria Valdivia Consulting LLC., a firm that provides expertise in transportation, urban planning, and nonprofit management. According to her business website, the firm focuses on crafting equitable policies and involving communities and activists in addressing climate issues.
Before assuming her position at the TLC, Valdivia’s nomination requires the City Council’s approval. If cleared, she will succeed David Doe, who was appointed by former Mayor Eric Adams in 2022.
