Keith named interim director at MoDOT

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission selected Chief Engineer Kevin Keith to serve as interim director of the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) effective April 23, 2010. Keith will serve until a permanent director is selected following a national search that could take several months. Keith replaces Pete Rahn, who will join HNTB following his stint as MoDOT’s top official.

“I am thrilled to accept this new responsibility,” Keith said. “I have been with MoDOT for more than 25 years and I know what great people work here. I am committed to the department’s current direction and will hand the new director the reins of a great organization.”

Keith has been MoDOT's chief engineer since July 2001. In that role, he has been instrumental in turning around public perceptions of the department. He has been nationally recognized for his innovative efforts implementing "practical design," a no-frills approach to satisfying customer needs while saving money for additional transportation improvements. Practical design has saved $500 million and the concept has been implemented in other states.

“Kevin's vast knowledge and experience make him an excellent choice to lead the department,” Commission Chairman Rudy Farber said. “His steady hand at the helm will allow us to conduct a comprehensive, national search for the next director of MoDOT.”