BEND, OR -- Deschutes County Commissioner Tammy Baney will head up the state's Transportation Commission.  Baney has served on the commission since 2011.  Governor John Kitzhaber announced her appointmnent as chair at Thursday's Transportation Commission meeting in Portland. "I'm seeking new leadership for the Transportation Commission in the wake of the recent Oregon Business Summit and strong interest. It's quite likely we'll be able to move a transportation package this session and I ver much support that. And, I've asked Commissioner Tammy Baney to serve as chair and she's accepted and I'm very happy for that."  The Governor called Baney a proven leader who cares about Oregon communities and ensuring the state has modern, safe and efficient transportation.

Baney responded to the Governor's remarks, "You have a commission that is ready to push forward with you and we appreciate your leadership. We have a lot of work to do to make sure the transportation infrastructure supports the economic vitality and the communities people live in.  We appreciate your leadership and we're right there with  you."

The commission establishes state transportation policy and advises the legislature.  State lawmakers will begin the next Legislative session on February 2nd.