McKenna Becomes Chairman of

Highways and Transportation Commission

JEFFERSON CITY – Bill McKenna of Crystal City today began a one-year term as chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.  He was previously vice-chair.  He replaces Marge Schramm of Kirkwood, who became vice-chair. 

The six-member bipartisan commission governs the Missouri Department of Transportation.  With more than 6,000 employees and an annual budget of more than $2 billion, MoDOT builds and maintains the nation’s seventh-largest state highway system and supports other transportation modes in Missouri.

State law requires that the two most senior members of the commission hold the leadership posts.  Terms for both McKenna and Schramm expire in March 2007.

“I’ve been honored to serve as a commissioner for the past several years, and I’m happy to continue my service as chairman,” McKenna said.  “With our commitment to finish the Smooth Roads Initiative by the end of the year, it’s an exciting time to be here.”

McKenna is president of Jefferson College and a former state legislator, including Senate Pro Tem.  Schramm is a former mayor of Kirkwood and former head of the Missouri Municipal League.