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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 05, 2024
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Maine Turnpike Authority appoints Interim Executive Director
Search for new leadership underway
PORTLAND, Maine - The Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) Board announced the appointment of Peter S. Merfeld, P.E., as Interim Executive Director, following the end of Peter Mills' tenure today, who led MTA for 13 years.
In June, Mills announced his intention to step down, concluding a distinguished public service career that included five years in the Navy, 16 years in the Maine Legislature, and his tenure as MTA's Executive Director.
MTA Board Chairman Dan Wathen praised Mills' accomplishments: "We are grateful for Peter’s tireless efforts to modernize the MTA, including increasing E-ZPass penetration from 59% to 88% and improving bond ratings, to leading major projects like the York Open Road Tolling Plaza and Portland Area Widening. His efforts in legislative reform were equally significant, enabling us to strengthen toll enforcement, overhaul the commuter discount program, and negotiate agreements that benefitted both the Authority and the public."
Merfeld, a 27-year veteran of the MTA and former Chief Operations Officer was responsible for oversight of approximately 165 employees across Maintenance, Engineering, Construction, Public Safety, and Service Plaza Operations. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Maine, an MBA from Thomas College, and has completed executive programs at Harvard and MIT.
MTA Board Vice-Chairman Michael Cianchette expressed confidence in Merfeld: "Peter’s leadership and institutional knowledge make him the ideal choice to guide the MTA during this transition."
Merfeld added, “I look forward to continuing our efforts to provide value to our customers and a safe, productive work environment for our employees.”
As Interim Executive Director, Merfeld will manage ongoing operations and key projects, including the new Exit 35 in Saco and the Gorham Connector public information initiative, in collaboration with local municipalities and the Maine Department of Transportation.
The MTA Board has initiated a nationwide search for a permanent Executive Director, a process expected to take several months. More information about the search process, that will be conducted by ProSearch, will be released in the coming weeks.
Also at today’s meeting, the Board reappointed John Sirois as Treasurer and Jonathan Arey as Secretary.
Additionally, the Board discussed the Gorham Connector project where staff recommended removing the project from the draft four year plan, pushing it out in the overall schedule to allow for more evaluation.
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