Four new top U.S. Department of Transportation officials were confirmed by the U.S. Senate last week.
Michael Rutherford was confirmed as the first Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight Infrastructure & Policy. Rutherford will be responsible for developing national freight policy and data-sharing initiatives while working with industry and transportation leaders, as well as local and state DOTs. He will oversee all freight-related grant programs, research efforts and working groups across the department, including efforts to tackle the problem of cargo theft.
“I am honored to support President Trump and [U.S. Transportation] Secretary Duffy in their unwavering commitment to advancing the cause for freight transportation in service to American industry, workers, and communities alike,” Rutherford said. “I look forward to partnering with transportation leaders, state and local DOTs, and industry experts to forge a common vision for the future of freight transportation in our great country.”
General Counsel Gregory Zerzan will serve as the chief legal officer of the DOT, as the legal advisor to the Secretary, and as the final authority within the Department on questions of law.
Zerzan said he looked forward “… to managing legal operations in a way that advances the Department’s goals of enhancing safety, eliminating unnecessary regulation, and promoting American transportation and infrastructure.”
As Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Derek Barrs will spearhead the FMCSA’s work to strengthen roadway safety, improve the efficiency of freight and passenger transport. Barrs currently represents one of the largest commercial motor vehicle associations in the country.
“My mission is clear — to strengthen safety, demand accountability, and deliver results that make a real difference,” Barrs said. “Working alongside law enforcement and industry partners, I am committed to making bold progress that keeps Americans safer on our roads and our nation moving forward.”
And David Fink will take the helm of the Federal Rail Road Administration.
“I deeply appreciate President Trump for nominating me and Secretary Duffy for supporting me through this long process,” Fink said. “Under this Administration, FRA will return to its primary focus on safety, leveraging innovation, and maximizing our resources for a strong America now and in the future.”