Corren Johnson abruptly resigns as Baltimore DOT director

In Baltimore, Maryland, the Director of the Baltimore City Department of Transportation, Corren Johnson, has stepped down from her position, as announced by Mayor Brandon Scott on Thursday afternoon. This decision has taken effect immediately, marking a significant leadership change within the department. Johnson was appointed as the second female director of the department in 2023, having served as interim director for eight months prior to her official swearing-in. Her prior experience includes working as the DOT's chief engineer and deputy director for Complete Streets. Johnson also had a notable tenure at the Maryland State Highway Administration, where she made history as the first Black female District Engineer for the state. During her time leading the Department of Transportation, Johnson successfully recruited and onboarded over 20 new traffic enforcement officers. She has been recognized for her efforts in modernizing traffic signals across the city and has pursued federal resources through various grant programs to benefit city infrastructure. Mayor Scott expressed gratitude for Johnson's dedication to the position and highlighted the strategic improvements she brought to the city's transportation system. Transitioning to new leadership, the current Chief Administrative Officer at the DOT, Veobia Akilo, has been appointed as the interim director. Mayor Scott expressed confidence that Akilo will continue to promote the shared vision of enhancing city services and building a more efficient and equitable Baltimore.