OLYMPIA — Sen. Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) issued the statement below in response to Julie Meredith’s appointment to lead the Washington State Department of Transportation: 

“For more than 30 years, Julie Meredith has tackled tough challenges and served Washington state with distinction in key leadership roles at the Department of Transportation. I am excited to see Gov.-elect Ferguson appoint her as the agency’s next leader. 

“As assistant secretary for Urban Mobility, Access, and Megaprograms, Julie has played a pivotal role in transformative projects that are critical to our economic competitiveness and mobility. Her management of mega projects like the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program demonstrates her ability to turn programs around and focus on getting the job done. Julie is a forward-thinking leader — from exploring ultra high-speed rail to stressing the need for maintenance and preservation — and will ensure Washington’s transportation system continues to thrive. 

“As chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I look forward to partnering with Secretary-designate Julie Meredith to get Washingtonians where they need to go, safely and efficiently.”