Mineta Transportation Institute Congratulates Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx

Rod Diridon, executive director of the Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI) has issued congratulations to the nation’s newest Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, who was sworn in yesterday. Most recently, Secretary Foxx was mayor of Charlotte NC, where he most notably led the city in significantly improving its transit services.

“The U.S. Senate’s unanimous confirmation proves that Secretary Foxx has great bi-partisan appeal,” said Mr. Diridon. “Not only is he a strong advocate of transit, but he also has emphasized the importance of safety in our transportation systems. This is especially gratifying to MTI because transit and safety are two of the institute’s key priorities. MTI is looking forward to a strong and successful relationship with Secretary Foxx as he takes on this impressive responsibility.”

Secretary Foxx follows in the footsteps of the newly-retired Secretary Ray LaHood, who became one of the nation’s most visible transportation secretaries. In his farewell note, Secretary LaHood said, “This truly has been the best job I have ever held…” He also noted that he worked with Secretary Foxx on a number of projects, and that Foxx will be a strong leader who will continue efforts to build a transportation system “that is second to none.”

Previously, Secretary Foxx earned his law degree from New York University’s School of Law, becoming a Root-Tilden Scholar in honor of his public service. As mayor of Charlotte, he led economic recovery by investing in an improved transportation system that now includes the LYNX light rail, establishing Charlotte Streetcar, and expanding the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. He also chaired the Transportation Committee while serving on the Charlotte City Council.

ABOUT THE MINETA TRANSPORTATION INSTITUTE (MTI)

MTI conducts research, education, and information transfer programs focusing on surface transportation policy and management issues, especially related to transit. MTI was established by Congress in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act and won national redesignation competitions in 2002, 2006 and 2011. The Institute is funded by Congress through the US DOT Research and Innovative Technology Administration, by the California Legislature through Caltrans, and public and private grants. In 2006 the US Department of Homeland Security selected MTI as a National Transportation Security Center of Excellence. The internationally respected members of the MTI Board of Trustees represent all major surface transportation modes.