Longtime DOT staffer named interim department chief

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has appointed longtime Iowa Department of Transportation staffer Stuart Anderson as interim director effective Friday.

He replaces Mark Lowe. He resigned effective Friday at the request of Reynolds, who indicated she wanted a change in leadership. Lowe served at-will, meaning he could be dismissed for any reason. He told DOT staff there were no investigations or complaints involved in the change, according to the Des Moines Register.

Reynolds praised Anderson’s credentials.

“Stuart brings a wealth of transportation experience and will provide steady leadership to the department until a permanent director is appointed,” Reynolds said in a statement. “I look forward to working with him to not only ensure a smooth transition at the agency, but also improve infrastructure and road safety.”

Anderson, an engineer, joined the department in 1992. He worked in various planning roles and since January 2009 has directed the Planning, Programming, and Modal Division.

Anderson has bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Iowa State University.