Rachel Cone to Succeed Jim Boxold as Florida DOT Secretary

Jim Boxold, Florida’s secretary of transportation the past two years, announced his resignation Jan. 23, effective Feb. 3. Gov. Rick Scott immediately announced Rachel Cone, the assistant secretary for finance and administration, as Boxold’s interim replacement.

“Jim Boxold has done a great job leading FDOT, and I want to thank him for his hard work as we have continued to make critical investments in Florida’s transportation infrastructure,” Scott said in announcing the switch. “Under his leadership, Florida has been a leader in transportation and made great improvements in our seaports, bridges and airports. His dedication to our state has helped ensure we have a world-class transportation system that supports continued economic growth and job creation.”

Cone was the director of communications for Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection and then Scott’s deputy chief of staff before joining FDOT in January 2015.

“Rachel has been part of my team since 2011 and has done an incredible job working hard for Florida families,” Scott said. “I am confident she will continue to do great work and build upon the successes of FDOT by ensuring we have the best transportation infrastructure for our residents, businesses and visitors.”