Replacing the aging Interstate Bridge across the Columbia River with a seismically resilient, multi-modal structure that provides improved mobility for people, goods, and services is a high priority for the bi-state region. Oregon Governor Kate Brown and Washington Governor Jay Inslee have directed the state DOTs to open the program office to restart work that identifies a bridge replacement solution for this nationally significant corridor.
“With his impressive range of technical and leadership experience, we are confident that Greg is the right person to take the helm of this critical program and help bring it to completion,” said ODOT Director Kris Strickler. “He has a demonstrated ability to effectively engage stakeholders and successfully deliver major infrastructure projects through complex community dynamics.”
“This is one of the most important transportation projects in the country, and we are all committed to seeing it through,” said WSDOT Secretary Roger Millar. “Greg’s skill set and experience providing strategic leadership and building partnerships to move projects forward will add immeasurably to our ability to deliver this program.”
Johnson was selected from a national pool of candidates due to his proven history of effective transportation leadership in both the private and public sectors. This includes over 20 years of service as a Senior Executive in the transportation industry. Through this work, he has demonstrated the ability to successfully set strategic direction, lead high-performing teams, innovate practices, manage budgets, and strengthen partnerships. He has worked on major infrastructure projects in both Maryland and Michigan, including early involvement on the Gordie Howe International Bridge project.
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Johnson is a licensed Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Michigan and a Masters of Public Administration from Western Michigan University. Most recently, he served as a Senior Vice President at WSP USA, one of the nation’s largest engineering firms, as the National Director for Construction Management & Services in Michigan. Prior to working in the private sector, he served as the State Highway Administrator for the Maryland Department of Transportation, and as the Deputy Director for the Michigan Department of Transportation.
“I look forward to working with the stakeholders to find solutions to the unique challenges that need to be addressed to move this critical infrastructure project forward,” Johnson said. “I am excited to dive in and begin this challenge.”
Johnson will assume his duties on July 6 after relocating from Michigan.
