Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has appointed Phil Eng, the current MBTA General Manager, as interim head of the state's transportation agencies following the departure of Monica Tibbits-Nutt, who will remain as an adviser until the end of 2025.

Eng, recognized for his leadership in improving safety and reliability on public transit systems in New York, is expected to oversee both the MBTA and MassDOT during the transition, with plans for a formal update and media event.

Eng has expressed enthusiasm for his new role and will work closely with Undersecretary Jonathan Gulliver, who was promoted to Undersecretary of Transportation and will continue overseeing highways.

Since taking charge of the MBTA in March 2023, Eng has overseen major improvements such as eliminating slow zones and expanding services like the South Coast Rail, signaling a proactive approach to transit modernization.

MassDOT is resuming the bidding process for 18 highway service plazas after the original contractor, Irish firm Applegreen, withdrew due to litigation threats from rival bidder Global Partners, which alleged conflicts of interest.

This move follows a controversial decision to rebid the contract for the plazas, which was initially marred by legal disputes and allegations of ethical violations, leading to the withdrawal of the original winning bidder.

The rebidding process aims to resolve conflicts and move forward with infrastructure improvements, amid ongoing efforts to enhance transportation services.

The leadership change at MassDOT occurs amid controversies surrounding Monica Tibbits-Nutt's tenure, including disagreements over highway toll proposals and issues with the highway service plaza contracts, which drew political opposition.

Tibbits-Nutt's departure had been anticipated, with her public profile diminishing after her proposal to introduce tolls without the governor’s approval was dismissed, and her tenure was criticized by opposition groups.

Jonathan Gulliver, Highway Administrator, has been promoted to Undersecretary of Transportation, supporting Eng in overseeing both the MBTA and MassDOT, and recognized for his experience in delivering complex infrastructure projects.

Eng, who has been leading the MBTA since March 2023, will now manage both agencies, raising questions about his capacity to oversee both roles effectively during this transitional period.

Under Tibbits-Nutt, MassDOT secured a record $1.8 billion in federal funding and promoted equitable fare policies, although the MBTA continues to face financial challenges and relies heavily on state aid.

Eng is credited with rebuilding the MBTA, restoring service levels, eliminating subway slow zones, and launching new services like the South Coast Rail, marking significant improvements for Boston commuters.