Glendale designates Purab Adabala as its upcoming transit management chief
Glendale Appoints Purab Adabala as New Transportation Director
Purab Adabala, a seasoned professional with a rich 18-year career in Glendale's transportation department, has been appointed as the city's new Transportation Director. The announcement was made by Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps, who praised Adabala's unique level of engineering expertise and community knowledge.
Adabala's career progression in Glendale's transportation department began in 2007 when he joined as a transportation planner. Over the years, he has advanced through various positions, including Senior Transportation Analyst, Transportation Planning Administrator, and most recently, Deputy Director of Transportation, a role he assumed in 2022. His latest promotion to Transportation Director took effect in July 2025.
Adabala's notable achievements in Glendale include his leadership during one of the city's largest Capital Improvement Plan implementations, overseeing major transportation infrastructure projects such as transportation and airport master plans, and managing key programs like the Glendale Regional Airport, transit services, pavement management, traffic signals, roadway signs, and traffic education programs.
Educationally, Adabala holds a master's degree in urban planning from the University of Kansas and a bachelor's degree in architecture from Andhra University, providing him with the technical and planning capabilities required for his role.
Adabala expressed his excitement about leading the Glendale Transportation team into a new chapter. He emphasized the pride the transportation team takes in improving the lives of the people they serve. Adabala is committed to fostering a collaborative environment where everyone is empowered to contribute their best work.
The transportation department includes the Glendale Regional Airport, transit services, and the pavement management program. Under Adabala's leadership, the department is expected to continue its commitment to providing safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions for the city of Glendale.
[1] Glendale Transportation Department website: https://www.glendaleaz.com/transportation [2] Glendale City Manager's Office press release: https://www.glendaleaz.com/citymanager/articles/glendale-appoints-new-transportation-director [5] Glendale Star: https://www.glendalestar.com/2025/07/glendale-appoints-new-transportation-director/
- In his new position as Glendale's Transportation Director, Purab Adabala is expected to strategically manage the rail and transportation sections of the city's industry and finance, overseeing the Glendale Regional Airport and transit services, as well as the pavement management program.
- With his extensive background in engineering and urban planning, Purab Adabala's finance-driven approach to managing transportation infrastructure will be crucial in implementing major rail and transportation projects, such as transportation and airport master plans, to ensure the sustainability of Glendale's transportation industry.
