AASHTO Journal, 6 November 2015
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission said Nov. 5 it has named Patrick McKenna as the new director of the state Department of Transportation. McKenna has been deputy commissioner of the New Hampshire DOT, and will become the MoDOT chief on Dec. 7.
McKenna“After a nationwide search, the commission knew Mr. McKenna had the vision and experience to lead the department to a new level of success and achievement,” said Commission Chairman Stephen Miller.
McKenna will replace Interim Director Roberta Broeker, who will return to her previous position as MoDOT’s chief financial officer.
His appointment comes during a period when state officials including Miller have been pushing for a major infusion of new revenue, and saying that constrained funding will soon require MoDOT to limit its resources to supporting only a priority segment of state-administered roads.
“I am excited and honored to take on the director’s position at MoDOT,” said McKenna. “Missouri faces a lot of transportation challenges, but MoDOT’s employees have proven time and again they can handle it. The department’s nationwide reputation for innovation is proof of that.”
While as NHDOT’s deputy commissioner, McKenna served as that agency’s chief financial, operating and legislative officer. He has also worked in leadership positions in the public, private and non-profit sectors, and for several years was sole proprietor of a real estate holdings company.