December 8, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information contact:

Craig Thompson, TDA Executive Director

craig.thompson@tdawisconsin.org

(608) 256-7044

MADISON - Phil Ramlet is the new president of the Transportation Development Association, a statewide alliance representing more than 400 transportation stakeholders. Ramlet was elected the association's 32nd president at its annual business meeting on December 4 and will serve for a term of one year.

"This will be an important year for transportation," said Ramlet. "The decisions made at the state and federal levels regarding transportation investment will greatly impact how well the U.S. navigates this economic downturn. Transportation investment now will create jobs. Sustained investment will build a strong base for future economic growth and stability."

Ramlet is president/CEO of Appleton-based OMNNI Associates, Inc. Founded in 1968, OMNNI Associates is a full-service engineering, architecture and environmental consulting firm involved with projects that range from traffic studies to the design of highways, interchanges, bridges, and airport runways. 

OMNNI Associates has been a TDA member for more than 20 years, and Ramlet has been a member of the TDA board of directors for the last 8 years. He previously held vice president and secretary positions in the association.

Ramlet is joined on TDA's 2009 executive committee by the following members:

• 1st vice president: Richard Jones, city of Racine
• 2nd vice president: Dean Haen, Wisconsin Commercial Ports Association
• secretary: Tom Fisher, Wisconsin Laborers' District Council
• treasurer: Paul Halverson, Douglas County Highway Department
• past president: Sheldon Johnson, Northwest Regional Planning Commission

TDA Executive Director Craig Thompson said he looks forward to working with the new president and executive committee.

"Phil brings the perfect qualities to lead TDA during this very important time in our state's history," Thompson said. "His experience running a successful company combined with his proven dedication to advocating for good public policy is exactly what is needed right now."

TDA is a statewide alliance representing more than 400 transportation stakeholders committed to working together for the best in transportation. Membership is open to all those interested in the development, maintenance, operation or improvement of transportation facilities and services in Wisconsin. TDA members include businesses, labor, units of government and organizations, as well as individuals. For more information, visit www.tdawisconsin.org.