Idaho Transportation Board selects new transportation department director

BOISE - After an extensive nationwide search, the Idaho Transportation Board selected Brian W. Ness to serve as its next director beginning Jan. 11, 2010. Ness comes to the state after a 30-year career with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

As administrator, Ness was responsible for helping MDOT meet its strategic planning objectives and quality improvement efforts. He holds a bachelor's of science degree and a master's degree in public administration.

Ness possesses the professional background, leadership skills, and energy to make an immediate impact on transportation in Idaho, Idaho Transportation Board Chairman Darrell V. Manning said. We know that his degree in public administration coupled with his transportation background will serve him well in effectively leading the transportation department.

"I am looking forward to the challenges that await me in serving the citizens of Idaho," said Ness. "Between now and January, I will be developing relationships with the ITD team, the Governor's staff, and the Legislature, as we move the department to the next level."

Manning said the outstanding group of finalists made the selection difficult. On behalf of the board, I want to thank all of the other candidates as well as the departments employees who remained patient during the selection process.

Manning expressed the boards gratitude to Acting Director Scott Stokes who managed the department's day-to-day activities during the search. Stokes will continue as acting director until early January. He will then resume his duties as the department's deputy director.