Hawaii Gov. Names Interim DOT Director; New Jersey DOT Commissioner Announces Departure

AASHTO Journal, 23 May 2014

Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie last week named Ford Fuchigami as his choice for Hawaii Department of Transportation interim director. Fuchigami succeeds Glenn Okimoto, who took a position at the University of Hawaii after serving as HDOT director since 2010.

“Glenn is an amazing leader and has done great work moving the DOT in the right direction,” Abercrombie said in a statement. “He has laid a solid foundation for the department to build upon and improve our airports, harbors and highways.”

Fuchigami, who began his new position on Monday, May 19, has served as HDOT deputy director since December 2010, a role in which he oversaw the state’s 15 commercial and general aviation airports. Fuchigami focused his efforts on bringing new airlines and new direct routes to the state. Before coming to HDOT, Fuchigami spent more than three decades in the hospitality industry. Fuchigami holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

“Ford has done a tremendous job over the past three years as chief executive of the state’s airports system by collaborating with major stakeholders and partners,” Abercrombie said. “This dedication, along with his experience and skills, will go a long way in improving all spectrums of Hawaii’s transportation network.”

In related news, New Jersey Commissioner James Simpson confirmed last week that he will step down from his position to return to private business, as reported by NorthJersey.com. No replacement has been announced.

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