A New Boss at ODOT
Filed by Michael Cross in Local News, News, Politics.
March 4, 2013
The Transportation Commission names Oklahoma Department of Transportation Deputy Director Mike Patterson as the new director for the agency.
Patterson is taking over from 44-year O-DOT veteran Gary Ridley.
A misty-eyed Gary Ridley bids a fond farewell to the Department he has called home for four decades and its leader since 2001.
He says Mike Patterson is a good choice to take over as leader.
“He’s been on what I consider our inner staff, our brain trust if you will, ever since I’ve been director. So, he’s been part of that. He’s certainly seen difficult times as well as times that are better and improving.”
Addressing the commissioners, Patterson says Ridley has been a strong chief in making O-DOT what it is today.
“It is one of the best places to work in government or the private sector in Oklahoma. ODOT is known nationally as one of the best, and we will continue to be so.”
Patterson takes over the job on April First making $139,000 a year.
Ridley will continue in the unpaid position as Governor Fallin’s Transportation Secretary.
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