Saenz named executive director of TxDOT

Saenz has served as TxDOT's assistant executive director for engineering operations since 2001. He has been instrumental in implementing the department's strategies to use all financial options to build transportation projects, empower local and regional leaders to solve local transportation problems, increase competition to reduce costs and to make consumer-driven decisions.

Saenz was district engineer in TxDOT's Pharr District from 1993 to 2001. He oversaw TxDOT's response when the Queen Isabella Causeway was hit by a barge in 2001 and directed emergency repairs, which were completed in less than three months. Saenz held numerous other engineering positions in the Pharr District after joining TxDOT in 1978.

"Amadeo is eminently qualified to focus the employees of the department on reducing congestion, enhancing safety, expanding economic opportunity, improving air quality and increasing the value of the state's transportation assets," said commission member Fred Underwood.

Saenz earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering with honors from The University of Texas at Austin.