DePaola to take over MBTA next week
Frank DePaola has worn many hats during his public sector service in Massachusetts and he's about to try on a new one thanks to a secret vote that went down Tuesday night.
Without gathering for a meeting, the seven-member Massachusetts Department of Transportation Board voted unanimously to name DePaola as interim manager of the MBTA, the Baker administration announced.
Thursday, DePaola waved off any interest in holding that post permanently.
During an interview on WBZ News Radio, DePaola said he plans to eventually return to his DOT post in the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, where he is chief operating officer and highway administrator.
The transit authority in recent weeks has been overwhelmed by record snow levels that have led to reduced service options for riders.
In the midst of the crisis, MBTA General Manager Beverly Scott announced she plans to step down in April. DePaola's appointment is set to take effect on March 4, although Scott still plans to remain at the MBTA until April to assist with transitions.
Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack, who sits on the MassDOT Board, on Wednesday also announced that Thomas Tinlin, former transportation commissioner for the City of Boston, will step into DePaola's current role and serve as acting highway administrator. Tinlin is MassDOT's chief of highway operations and maintenance. His appointment also takes effect on March 4.
DePaola has previously worked overseeing construction for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, as the MBTA's assistant general manager for design and construction, and recently as acting state transportation secretary.
According to MassDOT, its board is allowed to appoint a general manager of the MBTA through "unanimous written consent by the members of the board" and that consent was obtained late Tuesday night.
DePaola said on Thursday’s radio program that refunds in connection with substandard MBTA service are worth discussing, saying everyone felt "let down" by the system's performance during the series of recent snowstorms.
He said his immediate goal is to fully restore MBTA services and said he plans to take steps to prevent a similar situation from developing next winter.
WBJ Web Partners
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments