Chair of Oregon Transportation Commission resigns due to health reasons

Achterman speaking at the 2008 Oregon Bike Summit.(Photos © J. Maus) Gail Achterman is stepping down from her role as Chair of the Oregon Transportation Commission due to health reasons. The announcement came via email from Director of ODOT Matt Garrett yesterday, who said Achterman, “has significant health issues that require her full attention and … Read more


Changes at ODOT could lead to new era for active transportation

ODOT’s move could level the playing field for active transportation.(Photos © J. Maus) As I reported on Tuesday, a major organizational shift is taking shape at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). For the first time ever, ODOT will have an official Active Transportation “section” within the agency. ODOT Director Matt Garrett made the announcement … Read more


Kitzhaber mum on transportation: Will he make a change atop ODOT?

Governor Kitzhaber at his acceptance speech back in November.(Photos © J. Maus) Oregon’s newly elected Governor John Kitzhaber has made a many staff appointments in his first month in office. He’s named people to help him develop policy on issues like energy policy, business development, job creation, health care, affirmative action, and other issues. But … Read more


Buffered Bike Lane with a bike symbol and arrow pointing forward

Reporter’s notebook: Recap of Oregon Bike Summit

Oregon’s best and brightest bike advocates all came together for the 2010 Oregon Bike Summit.– Photo Gallery –(Photos © J. Maus) The Oregon Bike Summit happened on Friday. It was a lot of excellent information packed into one day, without a lot of breaks. That meant it was difficult for me to simultaneously attend, listen, … Read more


Buffered Bike Lane with a bike symbol and arrow pointing forward

ODOT charts course for a non-highway future

Gail Achterman at the 2008 Oregon Bike Summit.(Photo © J. Maus) The Oregon Transportation Commission is like the Jedi Council when it comes to setting statewide transportation policy. Its members are appointed by the governor and they have tremendous influence over funding, setting direction and priorities, and a host of other decisions that have a … Read more