Former Ariz. DOT chief to head FHWA

On Monday, Victor Mendez, former director of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Mendez will begin on July 20th and deal with critical and timely issues in his role as the nation's top federal highway official, including implementing the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act and the reauthorization of the surface transportation law, which will guide federal investment in the nation's network of roads and bridges for years to come.

Under his leadership at ADOT, Mendez oversaw the construction of the regional freeway system in the Phoenix area that was built six years ahead of schedule and delivered statewide construction programs on time, including major infrastructure improvements throughout the state. He also worked to improve the agency's customer service within motor vehicle and highway division offices.