(Salem, Oregon) The Travel Information Council is pleased to announce that McGregor “Mac” Lynde will serve as the agency’s next Executive Director, beginning on Monday, November 18, 2024. The council agreed by unanimous vote to offer Lynde the appointment at its public meeting on Wednesday, October 23. Currently serving as Special Advisor to the Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Lynde brings to the Travel Information Council twenty-two years of experience with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
“The council is thrilled to bring Mac’s significant experience in agency leadership and expertise in management of Oregon’s transportation system to the Travel Information Council, where he will join a staff dedicated to enhancing travelers’ experience with good information and safe places to rest,” said chair Eliza Canty-Jones.
The Travel Information Council, a semi-independent state agency, was created by the State of Oregon in the 1970s to operate the highway blue logo sign program following the Highway Beautification Act. The agency now also operates the Oregon Historical Marker and Heritage Tree Programs as well as 39 rest areas at 25 locations in Oregon, providing clean, safe, and inviting locations that are open and free to use 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve as the Executive Director and I look forward to working with the council, the staff, and our public and private partners to deliver our services across the state”, said Mac Lynde.
Mike Auman has served as the agency’s interim executive director since April, when the Travel Information Council began an open-recruitment process for the position of Executive Director. “The council is grateful for Mike’s leadership and for the steady work of all agency staff during this transition,” said Canty-Jones.