John Porcari, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation, was nominated by President Barack Obama on Monday to become the next Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

"John Porcari brings tremendous talent and experience to this extremely important and influential Administration position," said AASHTO Executive Director John Horsley. "Under Secretary Porcari's leadership, the Maryland DOT has led the way in community sensitive design and smart growth strategies that have improved the quality of life for Marylanders. He was also instrumental in the development of the new Woodrow Wilson Bridge, a $2.4 billion megaproject which was not only delivered on time and on budget; it broke new ground in environmental, contracting and management innovation. We commend President Obama for this outstanding nomination and look forward to working with Mr. Porcari, once he is confirmed."

In his current position, Porcari is responsible for motor vehicle registration and the highway, transit, aviation and maritime modes of the state's transportation system. Porcari also serves as chairman of the entity responsible for operating the state's bridge and tunnel facilities. He is in his second tour as Secretary, having previously served in this capacity from 1999 to 2002.