Bruce T. Jones, past president of the Salt Lake County Bar Association, was announced Wednesday as the new general counsel for the Utah Transit Authority.

Jones replaces Kathryn H.S. Pett, who left UTA in December. He will begin work in May.

"We are privileged to have someone with the legal and civic experience that Mr. Jones brings to UTA," said UTA Board of Trustees President Orrin T. Colby Jr. "Mr. Jones will provide leadership in helping UTA reach its transportation goals."

Jones has more than 30 years of legal experience, including service as managing director with the firm Suitter Axland in Salt Lake City. His legal work has focused on finance, government relations, business transactions and property.