New state DOT board chief from Gwinnett
The state Transportation Board has elected a new chairman, a retired residential property developer from Gwinnett County. Rudy Bowen will lead the board, which oversees the state Department of Transportation.
Bowen, of Suwanee, no longer owns part of Bowen Family Homes, he said, which is now run by members of his family. He takes over as the DOT faces a transportation funding pinch. "We've got to do more with less," he said.
The board elected Johnny Floyd of Cordele, a former state representative, as its vice chairman.
Bowen replaces Bill Kuhlke of Augusta. In stepping down Kuhlke drew laughter saying he had had an “interesting” tenure. He became chairman in 2008 after his predecessor, Garland Pinholster, stepped down after being accused of sexual harassment. Pinholster had just replaced Mike Evans, who resigned due to a personal relationship with the then-commissioner, who reports to the board.
About the Author
Ariel Hart is a reporter on health care issues. She works on the AJC’s health team and has reported on subjects including the Voting Rights Act and transportation.
