Sound Transit names Somers chair; Texas Central adds McClane to its board

Sound Transit's board yesterday appointed Dave Somers chair.

Somers is executive of Snohomish County, Wash. Somers succeeds outgoing board chair Dow Constantine, executive of King County, Wash.

"Sound Transit and our region's commuters are fortunate to gain Executive Somers' leadership on the heels of Executive Constantine's historic accomplishments," said Sound Transit Chief Executive Officer Peter Rogoff in a press release. "Under Chairman Somers' guidance, we will make the critical transition from a regional plan to real projects to expand service and keep people moving in the years ahead."

The board also elected John Marchione and Marilyn Strickland vice chairs. Marchione is mayor of Redmond, Wash., while Strickland is mayor of Tacoma, Wash.

The new officers' terms run for the next two years.

Meanwhile, Texas Central Partners LLC, the private firm developing a high-speed rail line between Houston and Dallas, has added Drayton McLane Jr. to its board.

McLane is chairman of the McLane Group, a holding company in the global logistics, technology and food production industries. From 1992 to 2011, McLane was owner, chairman and chief executive officer of the Houston Astros.

"We have a strong leadership foundation in place and couldn't be more pleased to have Drayton join us as the high-speed train moves forward," said Texas Central Chairman Richard Lawless in a press release. "He brings insightful perspectives, thanks to his business expertise and passionate commitment to helping Texans deal with today’s complicated transportation needs."

McLane's appointment marks the "latest significant leadership move by Texas Central," company officials said. Last month, Texas Central named Carlos Aguilar CEO and Tim Keith president.

The high-speed rail project is undergoing a federal environmental review, company officials said.