I want to first start by honoring all who have served in our armed forces, including the veterans and active service members within ASCE and T&DI. We have you had a meaningful Memorial Day weekend.
We are less than a month away from the T&DI Annual Conference in Detroit. I am looking forward to seeing everyone there. If you have not registered yet, please do.
We congratulate T&DI’s former President, Chandra Bhat, on being named one of 2026 Class of ASCE Distinguished Members. This recognition is well deserved and reflects the contributions he has made and continues to make to our profession.
On the ASCE front, the board previously approved the appointment of Peter J. O’Neil as ASCE’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 30. O’Neil brings a strong record of association leadership and a focus on member value. T&DI stands ready and looks forward to working with him as ASCE moves into its next chapter. ASCE’s board also approved recommendations from the Student Support Summit focused on engagement and retention, and received updates on ASCE2027 in Philadelphia and the Society’s 175th anniversary plans. Read more here.
On the transportation news front, we are all relieved that Transportation Security Administration funding was restored, and we are grateful for those who have continued to serve in that capacity and keep the traveling public safe. The US House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is moving the BUILD America 250 Act through Congress, a five-year $580B surface transportation reauthorization covering highways, transit, rail, safety. The bill also includes the first federal autonomous vehicle commercial framework. Lastly, earlier this month, the Federal Aviation Administration also published a proposed rule allowing critical infrastructure facility owners to apply for drone flight restrictions, with public comments due July 6. These are all areas where T&DI contributions and participation count, whether it be through advocacy at legislative fly-ins or by providing feedback on these rules. I encourage all of you to stay engaged.
Thanks as always for your commitment and contributions to our growing community.
Cheers,
Diniece Mendes
President, Transportation & Development Institute (T&DI)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
