19. Helena Williams

Between the congestion, recession, growing green awareness, roads that are outdated, and fluctuating gas prices, mass transit has become more crucial than ever, making the Long Island Rail Road’s performance increasingly important. Williams took over the role of LIRR president in September, 2006—the first woman to hold the job—after serving as president of MTA Long Island Bus and later as Nassau County deputy county executive. In her short tenure, the LIRR has announced a 33-percent reduction in gap-related accidents since 2007, responded to the alleged $250 million federal disability fraud perpetrated by the Rail Road’s retirees, and Williams has lobbied against fare hikes. This is an economy that is kind to no industry—the LIRR lost a million riders over the last year—but Williams’ savvy and experience ensures that a more-than-credible leader is at the helm.