HARPREET S. SANDHU APPOINTED TO AC TRANSIT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sandhu fills the vacant Ward 1 seat, representing Albany, Richmond, and surrounding areas

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) Board of Directors announces the appointment of Richmond resident Harpreet S. Sandhu to the vacant Ward 1 seat, serving Albany, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Richmond, San Pablo, East Richmond Heights, Kensington, North Richmond, and Rollingwood.

Director Sandhu’s selection process included an extensive public application process that drew a diverse range of candidates, each one reflecting the many backgrounds and experiences of Ward 1 residents.

Following today’s appointment, Director Sandhu, an East Bay resident of more than 50 years, expressed his commitment to upholding Director H. E. Christian Peeples’ legacy as a champion for the community, stating that he wants to ensure that Ward 1 remains an influential voice in guiding the future of AC Transit.

“As the son of immigrant parents, I grew up relying on AC Transit, whether it was my mother’s late-night commutes to San Francisco for work or my own rides to school and college,” said Director Sandhu. “I know firsthand how vital affordable, reliable public transit is for working families and underserved communities. AC Transit was always more than just transportation; it was my lifeline to opportunity and, ultimately, the path to achieving my American dreams.”

Director Sandhu brings to the AC Transit Board of Directors broad experience in transportation and infrastructure, drawing from his current role as Senior District Representative for Congressman John Garamendi in California’s 8th Congressional District. In this capacity, he works closely with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations and community leaders, to address transportation challenges, advocate for funding, and ensure that diverse voices – including immigrants, seniors, students, and working families – are represented in policy decisions.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Director Sandhu has long been committed to public service and community advocacy. He has supported organizations such as Lao Family Community Development, Inc., protected Sikh taxi drivers from hate crime following the September 11 attacks, championed English learners as Chair of the West Contra Cost Unified School District’s Multilingual Advisory Committee, and served over a decade on the California Development Disabilities Board.

Director Sandhu will fill the remainder of the term on the Board, which expires in December 2026.