Maryland Governor Wes Moore has brought new expertise to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board with the appointment of Maricela Cordova, a seasoned professional in the transportation world. "Maricela Cordova’s extensive background and proven track record in the transportation sector make her the perfect candidate to serve this important role on the MDTA Board," Governor Wes Moore said, highlighting her over three-decade career in the industry. Cordova's first meeting as a board member was on March 27, where she was officially introduced to her role in the authority that manages the state's toll facilities and transportation project financing, as reported by Montgomery County Government News.
Holding various leadership positions in the Montgomery County Department of Transportation since 2019, Cordova has been a significant force in driving transportation policy and helping implement projects like the Purple Line. Before joining Montgomery County Department of Transportation, she sharpened her skills as a senior manager with Clark Construction Group and has held architectural roles at firms like Michael Baker Jr., Inc. and HKS Architects. Holding a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Universidad Anahuac in Mexico City, her commitment to the field is further underlined by her association with the American Institute of Architects and the Design Build Institute of America, where she served as the Board Treasurer for the Mid-Atlantic Region, according to her professional background shared during the appointment, according to the Montgomery County Government.
County Executive Marc Elrich extolled Cordova's contribution to the county's transportation goals, focusing on equity, safety, and sustainability. "Maricela is a dedicated public servant who is poised to make a tremendous contribution to Maryland’s transportation future," he echoed, reinforcing the sentiment that her leadership has been invaluable to local initiatives, as stated by the Montgomery County Government. Having established an impressive reputation for her, it seems that her move to the MDTA Board was met with a unanimous nod of appreciation for her work ethic and strategic prowess. Her experience includes managing architectural, engineering, and construction programs, which is set to benefit the board's operations greatly.
The MDTA, not reliant on state tax dollars and financed by toll revenue, focuses on enhancing connectivity and economic development while upholding values of integrity and efficiency. "I am honored to receive this appointment by Governor Moore," Cordova shared in a statement. "I am eager to collaborate on Maryland's most important projects and priorities, and I am committed to advancing the board's values of integrity, transparency and efficiency.” She is determined to apply her transportation expertise comprehensively for the benefit of the state. Her track record at Montgomery County Department of Transportation of leading important infrastructure projects was noted as well-deserved recognition by Montgomery County Department of Transportation Director Chris Conklin, as per the Montgomery County Government.
Members of the MDTA Board, of which there are eight appointed by the governor, serve four-year terms. They are limited to serving a maximum of three consecutive terms. Maricela Cordova’s appointment fills the seat vacated by W. Lee Gaines, Jr., who was thanked for his service to the Board by Secretary Wiedefeld and MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gartner at a recent meeting. With Cordova's appointment, the board continues its efforts to address the complex transportation challenges that face Maryland today and in the future, as reported by the Montgomery County Government.
