Colorado Gov. Hickenlooper names Lewis to head DOT

Michael Lewis will become the next executive director for the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Gov. John Hickenlooper announced yesterday.

Lewis will start his new role in December. Most recently, he served as deputy executive director and chief operating officer for CDOT, where he provided policy, technical, organizational and operational direction for the $1.4 billion organization with 3,000 employees.

Prior to joining CDOT, Lewis served as director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation and president of the American Association of State Highways and Transportation Officials. He also is member of the National Academy of Construction.

"Mike has a reputation as a problem solver and brings an incredible transportation background to CDOT at a time when our state is faced with significant transportation challenges," said Hickenlooper in a press release. "His experience with some of the biggest projects in our state is critical as we build upon the successes of the last few years."

Lewis will succeed Shailen Bhatt, who is leaving the department to become president and chief executive officer of the Intelligent Transportation Society of America in Washington, D.C.