O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES NEW DOT SECRETARY, CONTINUES EFFORTS TO FOSTER ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE

ANNAPOLIS, MD – This week, the O’Malley administration appointed Jim Smith as the next Secretary of Transportation. The former Baltimore County Executive will oversee the implementation of the Transportation Infrastructure Investment Act.

“Jim Smith is an ideal choice to lead the Maryland Department of Transportation and move its efforts forward to create jobs and improve our infrastructure,” said Yvette Lewis, Chairwoman of the Maryland Democratic Party. “As Baltimore County Executive, Jim demonstrated strong leadership and integrity overseeing a multibillion-dollar budget and a staff of 8,000. I look forward to Jim beginning his tenure and implementing new investments in Maryland’s infrastructure.”

As Maryland Transportation Secretary, Jim Smith will oversee the new Transportation Act, which will generate $4.4 billion over the next six years for transportation projects across Maryland. Those investments will create more than 57,200 jobs, and improve Marylanders’ quality of life by reducing congestion. In addition to his service as County Executive, Jim Smith served as a Baltimore County Circuit Court judge for 16 years, and served on the Baltimore County Council for seven years, with two years as County Council Chairman.