Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Director Chris Conklin has been named the 2026 Outstanding Leader by the Transportation Association of Maryland (TAM).
Conklin received the award during TAM’s annual ceremony on Wednesday, September 23, in Stevensville. The statewide organization recognizes individuals and organizations for achievements in Maryland’s public and community transportation industries.
Conklin has served as MCDOT director since 2019, overseeing transportation operations and capital projects including highway maintenance, traffic operations, Ride On transit, public parking and major infrastructure projects. During his tenure, MCDOT has expanded its federal and state funding portfolio and advanced projects involving Bus Rapid Transit, the Purple Line, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and roadway safety improvements.
MCDOT also received TAM’s Outstanding Transit Innovation Program award for Ride On extRa service between the Shady Grove Metro Station and the Universities at Shady Grove.
Conklin credited MCDOT’s more than 1,200 employees for the department’s work, saying the agency continues to expand bus service, build bicycle and pedestrian connections and redesign roadways with an emphasis on safety.
