Director's Corner

A heartfelt farewell to my Caltrans family

After more than 35 years of service to the people of California, I write to you with a full heart and deep gratitude as I prepare to step away from my role as Director of Caltrans in early May 2025.

It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve this great state—and to lead an agency so rich in purpose, talent, and resilience. From my earliest days with Caltrans, to the privilege of serving as Director, this journey has been shaped by the incredible people I’ve had the chance to work with: engineers, planners, analysts, maintenance crews, administrative professionals, and so many more who are united by a shared commitment to public service.

Together, we’ve built and maintained more than just highways, bridges, and transit systems — we’ve connected communities, supported economic growth, responded to emergencies, and helped move California forward through times of challenge and transformation.

Our Core Four Priorities — Safety, Equity, Climate Action, and Prosperity — with the added principle of People First are at the forefront of what we do. Our top priority, safety, was emphasized on April 17 in West Sacramento when we gathered for the 35th Annual Caltrans Fallen Workers Memorial. If you were unable to attend, you can watch the proceedings on our YouTube channel and click on the photo gallery presented in this edition of CT News.

Looking ahead, our 2024-2028 Strategic Plan (pdf) represents the compass that will guide the innovative solutions that Californians deserve. This plan was developed using numerous data sources including transportation partners, community advocacy groups, and Caltrans employee survey results, and was informed through engagement with historically disadvantaged and underserved California communities in alignment with Governor Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order N-16-22 (pdf)

We owe much of our success to California’s transportation flagship, CalSTA. Its unwavering commitment to equity, safety, innovation, and community-centered projects has created a transportation system that reflects the values of all Californians. Under CalSTA’s guidance, Caltrans has helped to improve infrastructure, expand access, elevate safety, and embrace innovation. I will always remain a champion of our shared mission.

As I reflect on the road behind me, I am grateful for the friendships, the lessons, and the moments that reminded me why this work matters so deeply. And while it is never easy to say goodbye, I leave with confidence in the incredible team that will continue carrying our “People-First” focus forward.

Thank you for your dedication, your partnership, and the impact you make every day. I look forward to watching Caltrans continue to lead the way into a more connected, sustainable, and equitable future.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Tony Tavares