Henry Li (Sacramento Regional Transit)

Henry Li​ is General Manager and CEO of the Sacramento Regional Transit and a member of GSEC’s Competitiveness Council. Learn more about why he values economic development, working with GSEC and living and working in the Greater Sacramento region in the Q&A below.

As a regional leader, why is economic development important to you?

An economy that isn’t growing and diversifying will eventually become stagnant, leading to job loss, decreased revenue, and a less vibrant community. Sacramento’s economy has long been heavily reliant on government jobs, which makes it vulnerable during recessions. When the state budget is impacted, our region faces significant job losses. That is why the work of the GSEC is vital. By intentionally focusing on economic growth, we naturally encourage diversification. It’s not just about expanding but about broadening our economic base.

Increased investment in public transportation can lead to significant economic growth as a result of both the short-term stimulus impact of public transportation outlays and a longer-term, cumulative impact on economic productivity. Economic studies show that $1 investment in public transit can lead to $5 in economic return. A $1 million investment equates to 50 new jobs. Additionally, an individual could save approximately $12,800 annually by choosing to travel by transit over driving. As costs continue and affordability concerns continue to rise, SacRT is ensuring our workforce can access jobs and amenities, and still afford to live in our communities. Our economic development efforts create a larger, more diverse, and more resilient economy. At SacRT, we play a crucial role in this development by providing reliable and accessible transportation options, connecting people to job opportunities and supporting the economic

What excites you most about being part of GSEC?

What excites me most is showcasing the strengths of our region. Many people unfamiliar with the Sacramento region don’t realize what a fantastic place this is to live and work. GSEC is dedicated to growing and diversifying our economy, attracting new businesses and residents. When we welcome new people, it’s always a pleasure to highlight our universities, the American River Parkway, our cultural diversity, and our overall quality of life. There are numerous reasons a company might choose Sacramento, including the services provided by Sacramento Regional Transit. SacRT is an integral part of the region’s appeal, offering efficient and sustainable transportation solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents and make it easier for businesses to thrive. It’s rewarding to be part of the effort to showcase our amenities to prospective companies.

What do you like most about living and doing business in the Greater Sacramento region?

As an immigrant from China, I deeply appreciate Sacramento’s cultural diversity. The capital region boasts restaurants and businesses that remind me of my childhood home, as well as wonderful representations of cultures from other parts of such as Asia, Mexico and Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Slavic countries. Almost every part of the world is represented here in Sacramento. I know firsthand that being a new immigrant isn’t always easy, but Sacramento’s welcoming spirit offers people the chance to become part of the American Melting Pot. This welcoming nature and cultural diversity are tremendous strengths for our business community, economic development, and overall quality of life. At SacRT, we embrace this diversity and strive to provide inclusive and accessible transit services that cater to the needs of our diverse community, foster connectivity and support the vibrant cultural mosaic that makes Sacramento unique.

Learn more

Learn more about GSEC’s Board of Directors here.