MDOT executive director Melinda McGrath to retire at month’s end

Photo courtesy of MDOT

The executive director of the Mississippi Department of Transportation has announced her retirement. 

After leading the department for nearly a decade and spending over 30 years with MDOT, Melinda McGrath will retire at the end of the month. 

“It is with great reluctance that we (Mississippi Transportation Commission) accept the notice of retirement submitted by MDOT Executive Director Melinda L. McGrath effective March 31, 2021. Melinda has worked tirelessly for over 30 years to provide a safe, efficient and effective transportation system; from her years as a project engineer, to being named Chief Engineer and then Executive Director.  She set a high standard for excellence in engineering, integrity and transparency—not only at MDOT, but also nationally,” a statement from the MTC said.

The statement went on to commend McGrath for her work to help shape transportation policy and create innovative programs for the safety of MDOT employees and the traveling public as well as mentoring young engineers and other young professionals. A pioneer for women in the transportation industry, McGrath served as the first female chief engineer and executive director, according to MDOT. 

McGrath’s retirement comes as her re-confirmation was up for review by the Mississippi Senate. Recently, Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann expressed that members of the legislature remained concerned by the amount of funds spent by MDOT and the overall structure of the department. Hosemann noted that he had spoken with the MTC and McGrath about those concerns. 

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