Changes are afoot at the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), as Secretary Paul Wiedefeld plans to step down from his position on August 1, a move announced by Governor Wes Moore. Wiedefeld, with over 40 years in transportation under his belt, will be replaced on an interim basis by Deputy Secretary Samantha Biddle. With Wiedefeld's departure, a nationwide search for his successor will be led by Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, the latter move confirmed by Maryland Matters.
During his tenure, Wiedefeld oversaw significant accomplishments for the state's transportation system, including securing over $5 billion in federal grants aimed at various transit projects. This includes a $214 million investment to replace the Maryland Transit Administration’s light rail vehicles. In a statement detailed by FOX Baltimore, Governor Moore expressed gratitude for Wiedefeld's service, pointing out the newly laid foundation for a "more competitive, affordable state for all".
With Wiedefeld turning 70 next month, his withdrawal from the role will not signal an end to his professional endeavors; he is poised to become president of the Northeast Association of State Transportation Officials. He admitted in an interview with Maryland Matters that the role at MDOT is a "24/7 job," but hinted at further responsibilities on the horizon, stating, "There’s a number of things people talk to me about, universities, nonprofits, boards and consulting, to be frank, you know? So I’m very fortunate. I have different avenues there, if I want to pursue them, all or none."
Wiedefeld's departure is one of several recent changes in the Moore administration. Eric Luedtke moved from an advisory role to a job in the Department of Natural Resources, and Brad Fallon is now working at the Department of Housing and Community Development. Lieutenant Governor Miller is leading the search for a new transportation secretary, using her background in transportation engineering. Moore’s chief of staff, Fagan Harris, called her expertise a big help in replacing Wiedefeld.
