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Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker recently appointed former state Sen. Jeff Plale commissioner of railroads. If his appointment is confirmed by the State Senate, Plale will serve a six-year term.

During his Senate tenure, Plale represented a legislative district with multiple rail lines and businesses that relied heavily on rail service, Walker said in a prepared statement. Plale also chaired the Senate Committee on Commerce, Utilities, Energy and Rail, and served on both the Senate and Assembly transportation committees.

“Jeff Plale’s distinguished record of public service and experience, both as a state legislator and as a state administrator, make him an excellent choice to serve as railroad commissioner,” said Walker.

The commissioner primarily is responsible for grade crossing safety, including the installation of new crossings, closures, crossing alterations, repairs to rough crossings and exemptions from railroad track clearance laws.

“As commissioner of railroads, I will improve rail infrastructure and safety,” said Plale. “I understand the importance of a comprehensive transportation infrastructure, and the profound impact that rail has on commerce and job creation.”