Simon Fraser University economist Nancy Olewiler is the new chair of the TransLink board.

She takes over Jan. 1, replacing former board chair Dale Parker, who stepped down this fall after serving three years.

TransLink's appointed board of directors elected Olewiler chair. She had recently been reappointed to a second three-year term on the board.

“You can expect TransLink to continue its focus on efficiency and effectiveness to maximize the benefits we deliver with our existing transportation system," Olewiler said in a statement.

TransLink will aim to give local mayors and the province the best possible information and advice on developing a progressive transportation plan for the region and determining how to fund it, she said.

Olewiler credited Parker for his leadership and meeting or exceeding service and budget targets.

The appointed board, created after the province swept away local politicians who served on the old board, has operational control of TransLink and meets behind closed doors.