Delaware River Agency Taps New Executive Director

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The Delaware River and Bay Authority has tapped a former Delaware finance chief to lead the bi-state transportation agency.

The authority's board of commissioners' on Tuesday appointed Tom Cook to be its next executive director. He will replace Scott Green, who is retiring in February after five years in the role.

Cook will mark the DRBA's sixth executive director since the agency was formed in 1962 to provide transportation links between Delaware and New Jersey. The authority operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, the Forts Ferry Crossing, the Salem County Business Center and five regional airports in the two Mid-Atlantic states.

"This is a great opportunity to use the myriad of skills and knowledge that I've gained throughout my professional career to make a difference for the citizens of Delaware and New Jersey," said Cook in a statement. "I look forward to working with the dedicated men and women of the Authority to further our transportation and economic development missions."

Cook helped Delaware achieve a triple-A bond rating from all three major rating agencies during his time leading the state's finances. DRBA chairman William E. Lowe, III credits Cook with developing Delaware's sports lottery system and updating the state's corporate tax laws to attract new businesses.

"As Delaware's secretary of finance, Tom Cook has a proven track record of tackling tough issues and achieving goals," said Lowe in a statement. "Tom is a highly respected and experienced leader whose background makes him ideally suited for his new role as executive director."

The DBRA approved a five-year strategic plan last month that dedicates $460 million for infrastructure projects. The agency is rated A1 by Moody's Investors Service and A by S&P Global Ratings.

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Transportation industry New Jersey Delaware
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