State hopes to hire new MoDOT chief by year’s end

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ) -

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission wants feedback from the public as it begins its search for a new director for the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).

According to a press release from the commission, there will be a nationwide search for a new director. The commission hopes to have the position filled by the end of the year. Commission Chairman W. Dustin Boatwright said the commission will consider internal and external candidates.

"The MoDOT Director position is critical to the success of transportation in Missouri, and we want to hear from key stakeholders and the public what leadership qualities are important to them," Boatwright said.

The position will be vacant starting Sept. 20. Current Director Patrick McKenna announced his plans to step down earlier this month after nearly nine years in the position.

MoDOT Deputy Director Ed Hassinger will serve as interim director until a new director is named.

The public can provide input on MoDOT's website until 8 a.m. on Sept. 3.

According to the press release, the commission plans to post the job in early September.