If you want some proof that certain figures in the state Capitol are still serious about an increase in transportation spending, consider this quick move to tap a new road-and-bridge leader:
The State Transportation Board today tapped Russell McMurry, a veteran engineer who has worked at the Georgia Department of Transportation for 25 years, to take the reins of the agency. It comes just days after Keith Golden, the current commissioner, announced he would retire at the end of the month.
McMurry inherits an agency that commands a more than $2 billion budget and some 4,100 employees. He will also play a pivotal role in the coming debate over raising new revenue this legislative session to fund road and rail improvements.
Here's more about McMurry in the release:
"I am humbled, honored and thankful to the Board for the confidence they have shown in me," McMurry said. "I will give my best to continue the great teamwork we have here at Georgia DOT – and it is a truly great team, 4110 people strong – to put our best foot forward and do our very best always for the people of Georgia."
Board Vice Chairperson Emily Dunn nominated McMurry with seconds from Board Members Johnny Floyd and Ann R. Purcell. McMurry is well versed in virtually all Georgia DOT functions having served in a variety of roles throughout his career – from a construction project manager to design engineer to Northeast Georgia District Engineer for five years. McMurry is a Cum Laude graduate of Georgia Southern University and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Georgia.
He succeeds Keith Golden who served as commissioner for nearly three years and ends his long tenure at the Department at the end of the month. Both McMurry and Board Chairman Don Grantham expressed appreciation to Golden for his service to the Department. "He led through difficult times and did an excellent job," Grantham observed.
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