Change is in the air at the N.C. Department of Transportation as longtime Secretary Joey Hopkins steps down from his role, setting the stage for Deputy Secretary and General Counsel Daniel Johnson to take the reins. Hopkins, after a solid three-decade tenure at NCDOT, has decided to call it a day, effective October 1st. He was seen through the eyes of many as a fixture of the department, recognized for extending his service by a year to guide recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. "Hopkins' public service has been indispensable," Governor Josh Stein affirmed, as highlighted in a statement obtained by NCDOT.
Meanwhile, as we look to the past with reverent acknowledgments, NCDOT has been working closely to honor 23 fallen state troopers, a tribute that had long been pending. Indeed, partners at the State Highway Patrol and the N.C. Board of Transportation Road and Bridge Naming Committee have been to diligently forge ahead with these dedications since spring 2024. The task is nearly complete, with seven more dedications projected to conclude by year’s end. This initiative ensures these officers' sacrifices do not quietly fade into the background of history but instead are marked permanently upon the very bridges of the community they served.
The proverbial train of safety awareness is chugging along with National "See Tracks? Think Train!" Week also commanding the spotlight. It's all about educating the public on the dangers of railroad crossings, a critical issue that too often is brushed off until tragedy strikes. BeRailSafe, the Rail Division's safety unit, in collaboration with Operation Lifesaver and other organizations, recently took to the streets with safety exercises. They aimed to not only to raise awareness but to actively encourage and thank motorists for safe driving habits around railroad crossings.
Shifting gears to the lighter side of transportation news, NC By Train is making sure Panthers fans don't miss the kickoff by adjusting its schedule. The train service is providing fans with seven opportunities to smoothly board the train and glide to Charlotte in time for Carolina Panthers home games. Details about this service have been put forth by NCDOT, so fans can better plan their travel and make the most out of their football Sundays.
