By Jeanne Aamodt

Commissioner Tom Sorel today unveiled a new organizational model for Mn/DOT — a move, he says, that fine tunes the agency to better align people and functions for the future.

"Our goal is to have a structure that supports this agency's desire to renew the confidence and trust of the public we serve, foster increased innovation and position Mn/DOT to best deliver a comprehensive and historic transportation program for Minnesota," said Sorel.

He added that the organization also provides an employee focus, with an environment that encourages collaboration.

"Mn/DOT employees are an experienced and talented group who add value to public service," said Sorel.  "My expectation is that all employees will contribute to the agency's success and be recognized for their efforts."

Sorel said the organizational changes will help facilitate the agency's desire to foster public-private partnerships and collaboration with other state and local agencies and the transportation industry.

Notable changes to the organization include the addition of in-house Legal Counsel, placement of Chief Financial Officer and Finance within the Commissioner's Office and the addition of a sixth division, Policy, Safety & Strategic Initiatives.

"Minnesotans have high expectations for transportation and the agency needs to stretch its transportation dollars. Focusing on safety, innovation and partnerships is key. And, as U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters has said, we need 21st century solutions for 21st century problems," he said.

More details on the reorganization are available on Mn/DOT's Web site at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/information/orgchart.html.