Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott last week swore in the city’s new transportation director and planning commission chair.
Veronica P. McBeth, Baltimore’s new Director of Transportation, most recently served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy at the U.S. Department of Transportation.
“Director McBeth is no stranger to Baltimore or the challenges and opportunities of leading a transportation agency in a major city,” Scott said in a statement. “With over 20 years of experience in transportation planning and policy, including a presidential appointment to the U.S. Department of Transportation, she has built a career on delivering innovative and equitable solutions. She has worked at every level of government, helping to shape policies that make transportation safer, more efficient, and more accessible.”
Scott continued, “We know that transportation is the backbone of any thriving city. Transportation connects residents to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunity. It fuels our local economy, helps businesses grow, and communities thrive. We need and will have a strong visionary leader at our Department of Transportation. Leadership that understands that transportation is not just about roads, bridges, and buses, but about people, safety, equity, and opportunity. Transportation is one of the most powerful tools we have to create opportunity, connect communities, and build a stronger Baltimore. Veronica understands the unique transportation needs of our city and has the experience to make lasting, positive change.”
McBeth was appointed to lead the city’s transportation department after the abrupt departure of the department’s former head, Corren Johnson.
Scott also swore in Jon Laria as chair of Baltimore’s Planning Commission. Laria has most recently served as special counsel to the Ballard Spahr law firm.
“Chair Laria brings a wealth of experience in real estate, land use, and transit advocacy, expertise that will be invaluable as we work to build a more equitable and thriving Baltimore,” Scott said. “His leadership on key transition teams for my administration, Comptroller Henry, and Governor Moore demonstrates his deep commitment to public service and thoughtful urban development. As Chair of the Baltimore Regional Transit Commission, Jon has strongly advocated for better transportation options, which directly ties into our planning goals for a more connected city. I have no doubt that the Planning Commission will help shape a Baltimore that is more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking under Jon’s leadership.”
