David Braun, Connect Transit’s managing director, has taken a leave of absence and may not return to the transit agency, according to an internal communication WGLT has obtained.
Connect Transit Board of Trustees Chair Julie Hile informed transit staff in a memo Thursday that Deputy Managing Director Brady Lange will temporarily take over managing director duties.
“He, along with other members of the leadership team, will ensure that Connect Transit continues to operate without disruption,” Hile said.
The memo did not indicate the reason for Braun’s absence.
When contacted by WGLT, Hile declined to comment on personnel matters. Braun also declined to comment.
“The Board of Trustees has absolute confidence in Connect Transit's devoted, high-performing workforce, and we know you will continue to provide outstanding service to the residents of Bloomington, Normal, and McLean County during this time as you have always done,” Hile said.
Braun has served as Connect Transit’s managing director since 2021.
The agency, which operates public busses and other rideshare services in Bloomington-Normal, operates on a $21.5 million annual budget. It’s been planning a bus transfer center in downtown Bloomington, targeted for a late 2026 opening.
Braun’s leave of absence is the latest leadership shakeup at the transit agency. Hile, who has served on the board since 2018, was appointed board chair in October after the death of Ryan Whitehouse.
