(The Center Square) – Daniel Johnson, deputy secretary and general counsel for the North Carolina Department of Transportation, will elevate on Oct. 1 to lead the department for retiring Joey Hopkins.
First-term Democratic Gov. Josh Stein said Hopkins delayed his retirement to help with Hurricane Helene recovery. The state is in its 51st week of recovery from a storm that killed 107 and caused an estimated $60 billion in damage.
“Secretary Hopkins leaves a legacy of leadership that I can only hope to continue,” Johnson said. “We must continue the task of building a transportation system that meets the needs of our growing state, and I am eager to get to work.”
According to the Office of the State Controller, Hopkins’ annual salary is $290,000 and Johnson $188,738.
The mission of the department is, “Connecting people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina.”
Johnson will oversee nine division – Aviation, Division of Motor Vehicles, Ferry, Global TransPark, Highways, Integrated Mobility, Ports Authority, Rail, Turnpike Authority.
“We have much work ahead to strengthen our infrastructure in western North Carolina, as well as to lead our entire state into the future of transportation,” Stein said. “With his record of public service, leadership, and expertise in transportation, Daniel Johnson is the right person for the job.”
