BALTIMORE, MD (Thursday, February 20, 2025) - Today, during a ceremony in City Hall, Mayor Brandon M. Scott swore in Veronica P. McBeth as the Director of the Department of Transportation and Jon Laria as the Planning Commission Chair.

Veronica P. McBeth, Director of the Department of Transportation

"Director McBeth is no stranger to Baltimore or the challenges and opportunities of leading a transportation agency in a major city. With over 20 years of experience in transportation planning and policy, including a presidential appointment to the U.S. Department of Transportation, she has built a career on delivering innovative and equitable solutions. She has worked at every level of government, helping to shape policies that make transportation safer, more efficient, and more accessible. We know that transportation is the backbone of any thriving city.

Transportation connects residents to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunity. It fuels our local economy, helps businesses grow, and communities thrive. We need and will have a strong visionary leader at our Department of Transportation," said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. Leadership that understands that transportation is not just about roads, bridges, and buses, but about people, safety, equity, and opportunity. Transportation is one of the most powerful tools we have to create opportunity, connect communities, and build a stronger Baltimore. Veronica understands the unique transportation needs of our city and has the experience to make lasting, positive change."

Jon Laria, Planning Commission Chair

"Chair Laria brings a wealth of experience in real estate, land use, and transit advocacy, expertise that will be invaluable as we work to build a more equitable and thriving Baltimore. His leadership on key transition teams for my administration, Comptroller Henry, and Governor Moore demonstrates his deep commitment to public service and thoughtful urban development," said Mayor Scott. As Chair of the Baltimore Regional Transit Commission, Jon has strongly advocated for better transportation options, which directly ties into our planning goals for a more connected city. I have no doubt that the Planning Commission will help shape a Baltimore that is more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking under Jon's leadership."