State Transportation Secretary Lynn Peterson has announced a comprehensive program assessment for three of the Washington State Department of Transportation’s large-scale construction projects. The assessment will review the process used for key project decisions and how those decisions are documented to ensure the best accountability and project-delivery practices.
Ron Paananen, CH2M Hill program manager and former WSDOT administrator and project director, will lead the assessment of the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement, the State Rte. 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program and the I-5 Columbia River Crossing project.
“Ron’s experience managing large-scale projects and his reputation across the state and country is second to none,” said Peterson. “It’s our goal to build on the progress begun under Secretary Hammond to ensure our transportation system is safe and Washington taxpayers’ investments are sound.”
Peterson was appointed just last month by Gov. Jay Inslee. Before joining WSDOT, Peterson served as Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber's Sustainable Communities and Transportation policy advisor. She is the former chair of the Clackamas County Commission and a nationally recognized transportation and land-use integration expert.
Paananen’s review will consider and recommend any improvements that clarify lines of decision making and allow quick dispute resolution to provide cost-effective project delivery. Conclusions and recommendations from the review, which is scheduled to be complete by Sept. 30, will be made public.
