NSC statement on confirmation of Shailen Bhatt as FHWA Administrator

The National Safety Council congratulates Shailen Bhatt on his confirmation as administrator of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). As preventable motor vehicle deaths in the U.S. remain high, it is vital to have leadership that understands proven prevention strategies, is focused on a Safe System approach and embraces promising innovation and technology. Administrator Bhatt will provide that leadership and bring an essential perspective to the role through his previous experience at the U.S. Department of Transportation and state Departments of Transportation. Leaders like Mr. Bhatt are needed to oversee the billions of dollars in funding that are delivered to program administrators at the local and state levels to set the tone for how transportation programs will be administered.

As one of more than 2,000 organizations signed on to a letter urging the administration to commit to achieving zero traffic deaths, NSC stands ready to assist in every way. Our country faces many complex challenges, including a crisis on our roadways. It will take groups across public and private sectors working together to save lives, and NSC looks forward to working with Mr. Bhatt and the FHWA to do just that.