Governor Patrick Selects Secretary Bernard Cohen to Serve on Turnpike Board

BOSTON-Friday, February 16, 2007- Governor Deval Patrick today appointed Transportation and Public Works Secretary Bernard Cohen to the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Board, filling a vacancy that was created earlier this week.

The appointment of Secretary Cohen will allow for better collaboration between the quasi-public agency and the Executive Office, as the Patrick/Murray administration works to rebuild and revitalize the state's complex transportation system.

"Secretary Cohen's experience and sound judgment will contribute mightily to the Authority," Governor Patrick said. "His understanding and enthusiasm for the job will be key in realizing our goal of a transportation network that improves the quality of life for our citizens and helps move our economy forward."

"I appreciate Governor Patrick's confidence in my abilities to serve as a board member of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority," said Transportation Secretary Bernard Cohen. "Massachusetts faces a huge challenge in transportation. Today's appointment takes one small step towards a more rational system that will allow us to better leverage resources, achieve efficiencies and link investment with transportation policy."

Secretary Cohen will automatically be elevated to chairman of the board of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority on July 1, 2007. Governor Patrick will name a new board member at that time. Secretary Cohen will forego a salary for serving on the board.