Governor Rell Appoints Jeffrey Parker

As New DOT Commissioner

Commissioner Joseph Marie Resigns

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that state Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph F. Marie has submitted his letter of resignation in order to pursue long-term employment opportunities and spend more time with his family. The Governor has appointed Deputy Commissioner Jeffrey Parker to be commissioner.

“I thank Joe Marie for his service to the state of Connecticut and wish him well as he pursues other opportunities. Joe made a significant contribution to DOT over the last two years and his leadership will be missed,” Governor Rell said. “I have full confidence that Jeff Parker will continue moving the DOT in the dynamic new direction that I have set.”

Under Governor Rell’s leadership, Connecticut is adding 300 new, state-of-the art rail cars to the New Haven Line, expanding Shoreline East service and upgrading dozens of commuter stations. Bradley Airport has added airlines and is undergoing major improvements.  The state has used more than $150 million to replace 77 transit buses and 28 commuter coaches, many of which feature clean-burning hybrid fuel. The safety of the state’s roads and bridges are a top priority for the Governor and the state’s “Fix-it-First” maintenance campaign is improving hundreds of miles of roadway and bridges.

“Deputy Commissioner Parker brings a wealth of experience in mass transit and commuter rail to which we are committed. I fully expect a seamless transition at DOT as we move forward with our goals,” Governor Rell said.

Parker, a Newington native, joined DOT in 2008 after a successful tenure as Senior Director of Transportation Operations at the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). A graduate of Northeastern University of Boston, Parker also worked for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) where he oversaw project management, safety and operations control.

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