Gov. Rick Snyder on Tuesday named Mark Van Port Fleet as director of the Michigan Department of Transportation.
“During his time at MDOT, Mark has created a standard for developing and completing innovative, high-quality projects that benefit all Michiganders,” Snyder said. “His dedication to improving our roadways and infrastructure is impressive and brings me confidence he will excel in this new role.”
Van Port Fleet is the senior chief deputy director for MDOT, where he has 38 years of experience. Under his direction, MDOT has become a leader in the use of innovative contracting methods to deliver projects better and faster. He has focused externally on building stronger relationships with Michigan’s industry partners and internally on driving strategic innovations, employee engagement, and governmental accountability. Additionally, Van Port Fleet has represented the state for the past four years as Michigan’s key negotiator with the Canadian government on development agreements for construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
MDOT is responsible for Michigan’s state highway system and administers other state and federal transportation programs for aviation, intercity passenger services, rail freight, local public transit services, the Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF), and others. As the new leader of MDOT, Van Port Fleet will oversee the department’s 2,500 employees, $4.7 billion annual budget and administration of a wide range of multi-modal transportation programs statewide. He also will be responsible for the construction, maintenance and operation of nearly 10,000 miles of state highways and more than 4,000 state highway bridges.
Van Port Fleet is an active member of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and chairs AASHTO’s Innovations Initiative Group, the US Route Numbering Committee and the Domestic Scan Selection Panel. He is a past member of the Standing Committee on Highways, Subcommittee on Bridge and Structures and the Subcommittee on Design. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Michigan State University and is a licensed professional engineer in Michigan and Florida.
The appointment is effective Nov. 1, 2018 and is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
