Joseph McCarthy

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Born: October 29, 1951, Madison, Wisconsin Died: August 19, 2000, Kenosha, Wisconsin Profession: Director of Transportation

Joseph McCarthy | Urban Transit (1951–2000) was an American transportation director known for his contributions to urban transit systems, particularly in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, McCarthy was raised in Sun Prairie. His parents, John and Margaret McCarthy, worked in transportation, which likely influenced his future career in public transit.

Early Life and Education

McCarthy developed a passion for the arts and music during his youth. He played guitar and saxophone and performed with a local band in high school. He also pursued photography, working as a yearbook photographer and wedding photographer.

McCarthy attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the early 1970s, where he worked as a lighting technician for concerts. After a break to focus on family and career, he returned to complete his degree, earning a Bachelor of Science in public administration and policy analysis with a business minor in 1992.

Career

McCarthy's career in public transportation began with the establishment of McCarthy Transportation Limited, a commuter service between Sun Prairie and Madison. He later joined the Madison Transportation System, where he developed expertise in urban transit, eventually serving as Assistant Transit Manager in Wausau, Wisconsin, and later as Transit Manager.

In 1991, McCarthy was appointed Director of Transportation for Kenosha, Wisconsin. One of his significant achievements was the reintroduction of Kenosha’s streetcar system in 2000. McCarthy played a key role in securing federal and state funding for the project, which integrated historic PCC streetcars into the city's transportation network. The 1.7-mile streetcar loop aimed to connect key destinations such as municipal buildings, museums, parks, and the Metra station.

Urban Revitalization and Streetcar Project

The reintroduction of the streetcar system was part of a broader urban revitalization effort in Kenosha, following the decline of the downtown area after the closure of the Chrysler auto plant. The project was designed to stimulate economic activity in the downtown area and improve access to public transportation for residents and commuters. McCarthy’s vision was informed by streetcar systems he had studied in cities like San Francisco and New Orleans.

McCarthy’s work on the Kenosha streetcar system garnered attention as a model for integrating sustainable public transportation into urban environments. The system was cited as an example in projects such as the Tempe Streetcar Project in Arizona.

Broader Contributions

In addition to his work in Kenosha, McCarthy was involved with the American Passenger Transportation Association and the Wisconsin Urban Transportation Association. He testified before Congress on issues related to urban transit and sustainability, advocating for modern public transportation solutions.

Death and Legacy

McCarthy passed away unexpectedly on August 19, 2000, while rollerblading with his wife in Kenosha's HarborPark. His death occurred shortly after the successful launch of the Kenosha streetcar system, which he had worked on for several years. The Joseph McCarthy Transit Center in Kenosha was named in his honor, recognizing his contributions to the city’s transportation infrastructure.

McCarthy’s work continues to influence urban transportation planning, with the Kenosha streetcar system serving as an example for other cities looking to implement sustainable and accessible public transit systems.

References

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