Brown County engineer gets ODOT job

Brown County Engineer James Beasley, 57, of Georgetown was named director of the Ohio Department of Transportation today by Gov. Ted Strickland. It is Strickland's 17th cabinet pick and his first from southwestern Ohio.

"Jim understands that an efficient and reliable transportation network contributes to and enhances economic growth," Strickland said in a prepared statement. "I am confident that he will not only be a tremendous leader in developing and maintaining safe roads for Ohioans, but will guide the department in a way that helps create jobs."

Strickland said he has known Beasley for more than 30 years. "I know, without a doubt, that he has the character and integrity needed to manage this crucial department."

Beasley begins March 5 in the job that pays $124,758 annually.

Beasley has served as Brown County engineer since 1980. He worked for the state Department of Natural Resources from 1973-1975.

He graduated from Ohio State University in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and received his master’s degree from OSU in hydraulic and hydrologic engineering.

Beasley has served two separate terms as vice chair and chair of the District 15 Ohio Public Works Committee.

"I am eager to work with our state’s various regions and cities to ensure that all Ohioans have access to a quality, statewide transportation system," Beasley said. "This cooperation is absolutely necessary to ensure that economic development and job creation in every part of the state remain key priorities of the Ohio Department of Transportation."

The Ohio Department of Transportation has an annual budget of $2.1 billion and maintains nearly 20,000 miles of highway.