An exclusive conversation with new Milwaukee Streetcar System Manager James Vineau

The Milwaukee streetcar faces an uncertain future amid consistent maintenance issues, an unclear path towards funding expansion and questions over how to make the system profitable. Additionally, the position of city streetcar system manager was vacant for months following the resignation of Andrew Davis-Lockward in October of 2024 which city records note was "in lieu of discharge"," according to city records". That position has now been filled, with the city electing to hire an outside name with a unique background. James Vineau, a dual US-French citizen who last worked as senior director of transit operations and maintenance for RAPT Dev, accepted the job in June. In his first public comments since his hire, he tells WTMJ's Adam Roberts what drew him to Milwaukee, how his experience in Qatar will factor into his goals in Milwaukee, and more.