John D. Porcari selected as U.S. DOT Deputy Secretary

The White House announced April 10 that President Barack Obama has chosen Maryland Transportation Secretary John D. Porcari as the No. 2 U.S. DOT position, Deputy Secretary.

In selecting Porcari, Obama has chosen one of the few state transportation secretaries whose portfolio includes all the major modes of travel—highways, aviation, mass transit, maritime commerce and rail freight. If he clears the required background checks and is confirmed by the Senate, Porcari would serve as deputy to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

Porcari would bring with him a thorough knowledge of the transportation issues that affect Maryland and the region, and a reputation for addressing environmental concerns associated with large-scale projects. At the Maryland Department of Transportation, Porcari implemented a record highway program for the state, including construction of the 2.4 billion InterCounty Connector that includes an environmental program unprecedented in state history. He also was directly involved in the development and funding of the $2.4 billion Woodrow Wilson Bridge. In between his service as Maryland's Transportation Secretary, Porcari served as Vice President for Administrative Affairs at the University of Maryland, where he served as the chief administrative and financial officer.

"Just like Obama and LaHood are not going to ignore the needs of Illinois, John wouldn't ignore the needs of Maryland, the greater Washington D.C. area and the East," said John Horsley, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.