In a significant reshuffling of leadership within Massachusetts’ transportation sector, Governor Maura Healey has appointed Phil Eng, the current General Manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), as the interim Secretary of Transportation. This dual role underscores not only Eng’s extensive experience but also the state’s commitment to enhancing public transportation during a transformative period.
Governor Healey commended Eng for his leadership at the MBTA, noting the pivotal improvements in safety and reliability that have been realized under his tenure. “Phil Eng has overseen a transformative period for public transportation in our state and delivered the results that the people of Massachusetts have needed for a long time,” she remarked. His decades of experience in the transportation field position him as a well-suited candidate to navigate the complexities of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) during this interim period.
In conjunction with Eng’s appointment, Jonathan Gulliver has been elevated to Undersecretary of Transportation. Gulliver’s promotion is particularly noteworthy as he is recognized as the longest-serving Highway Administrator in MassDOT’s history. His tenure has been marked by a track record of delivering major infrastructure projects while addressing the needs of local communities regarding their roads and bridges. Healey expressed confidence in his abilities, stating that Gulliver “knows how to deliver major, complex projects while also supporting our cities and towns.”
These leadership changes come on the heels of Monica Tibbits-Nutt’s departure from the role of Secretary of the Department of Transportation and CEO of MassDOT. Tibbits-Nutt’s exit marks a pivotal transition, but she will remain on board as an advisor until the year’s end to facilitate a smooth handover. This transitional period is vital as Massachusetts seeks to bolster its transportation infrastructure and address the evolving demands of its residents.
The appointment of Eng and Gulliver reflects a strategic effort by the Healey administration to prioritize both innovation and stability within the state’s transportation framework. With ongoing challenges such as congestion, aging infrastructure, and the need for sustainable transportation solutions, the leadership team will be crucial in steering the state toward a more efficient and reliable transit system.
As Massachusetts navigates these developments, stakeholders will be watching closely. The emphasis on experienced leadership indicates a proactive approach to tackling the systemic issues that have long plagued public transportation in the region. Eng’s and Gulliver’s combined expertise could potentially lead to significant advancements in how residents experience transportation across the Commonwealth, making this a crucial moment for Massachusetts’ transportation future.
 General Manager Phil Eng the interim transportation secretary. Healey’s office said Eng will continue...){kind=link}