What does Benjamin Limmer like to do in his free time?

Benjamin Limmer

First, his professional life: Limmer is chief of the Connecticut Department of Transportation's Bureau of Public Transportation. He has previously served in leadership positions at RATP Dev USA; Hillsborough Transit Authority in Tampa, Fla., and the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. He is active within the industry and currently sits on the board of directors for the American Public Transportation Association. Limmer holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the University of Northern Iowa and a master’s degree in urban planning, design, and development from Cleveland State University.

What do you like best about your current city of residence?

Currently, I reside in Simsbury, Conn., a beautiful New England town just northwest of Hartford. My house is located within a state forest. What I enjoy are the abundance of outdoor hiking and biking activities, diversity of restaurants and terrific schools. Simsbury is within close proximity to the Hartford airport and rail access to New Haven, New York and beyond.

With his wife Johanna and two daughters, Alexis (21) and Mia (12), on the beach in Oscoda, Mich.

Favorite places to travel?

My trips are usually brief, and I mix beach and nature and cities quite well. I recently went boating in Tampa where my daughter lives. The calmness of the gulf is relaxing. I just took a long weekend to Montreal. It's like a trip to Europe but only a short drive away. But I am often in the Midwest to visit family. As a Michigan native, I do prefer the freshwater Great Lakes and spent a lot of my childhood in the northern part of the state. That’s my absolute favorite.

What podcasts do you listen to?

Podcasts about Michigan/Detroit sports, government/transportation issues, and crime – in that order. Within the last day, I’ve tuned into MGoBlog to catch up on the Michigan football and basketball roster. I’m also listening to one on the Big Dig in Boston. I had no idea about the complicated history and political dynamics around the project.

Favorite TV shows?

My favorite “TV shows” are all things Michigan and Detroit sports. Other than that, I cycle through what’s popular on Netflix and Hulu. I just wrapped up "Eric" on Netflix.

If you had to watch one movie multiple times, what would it be?

I’m fairly conflicted — from "Star Wars" to "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" to "Back to the Future" to "Goodfellas" to "Pulp Fiction" to "8 Mile." I guess I cannot answer this one.

Kayaking with daughter Mia in Weeki Wachee Springs, Fla.

Favorite food?

Mexican! Chips, salsa and tacos are simply undefeated.

Favorite phone app?

Probably Waze. But if my phone was inspected it might say Instagram/Facebook. I disagree with that though.

Favorite ways to stay active?

Head to the gym every weekday morning at 5:30 a.m. Still a big fan of the Peloton. Also enjoy biking, hiking and most things outdoors.

Tell us about a recent ride you took on public transit?

Recently, I went to a joint retreat with MTA Metro North Railroad aboard the inspection train along the New Haven Line to discuss current capital initiatives. The collaboration and partnership we have is incredible.

Visiting vineyards in California's Napa Valley.

Favorite guilty pleasure?

French fries, bourbon, classic hip hop, Lulu joggers and Instagram Reels. I am amazed at how well the algorithms know me. How do they know to show clips of an Outkast song, then a Michigan football highlight, then a cool weekly meal prep idea?

What do you think you would be doing, if you didn't work in public transportation?

Originally, I got into transportation to run an airport. Being able to work with airlines to provide travel options to cities all while ensuring smooth facility operations has always excited me. However, public transportation found me instead and I’ve never looked back. My educational background is in urban planning and public administration. Besides running an airport, I assumed I’d be a city manager. Perhaps that’s what I would be doing.

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