Exit Interview: NYCHA Chairman John Rhea

New York City Housing Authority Chairman John Rhea has had a seemingly insurmountable task for the past four years — providing safe and affordable housing for more than 630,000 people living in the largest public housing system in the U.S.

That hasn't been without its challenges, including an extensive backlog of repairs that only worsened after Sandy. Rhea says his agency has made over 90% of the 338,000 backlogged repair requests, a goal the administration announced a year ago.

Rhea also has some advice for his successor, whomever that may be. "If you let the critics slow you down, then ultimately public housing and low income families in New York will suffer," he said.

Rhea said he's returning to work in the private sector for the time being.