Originally published in 2001
Michael Behrens, an assistant executive director of Texas Department of Transportation was named executive director on August 16, 2001 by the Texas Transportation Commission. Behrens succeeds Wes Heald, who retired on August 31.
Behrens, 53, began his career with TxDOT in 1971 as an engineering assistant in the department’s Yoakum District and has served in numerous engineering positions at TxDOT.
Presently, Behrens has announced no specific changes in mind for TxDOT, but noted important issues such as safety, mobility and preserving the transportation system in Texas as priorities.
TxDOT has 14,500 employees and is responsible for the 79,000- mile state highway system, including public transportation, aviation, motor vehicle registration, special truck permits, regulation of motor vehicle dealers, water transportation, rail, tourism and pedestrian, bicycle and traffic safety.