TITLE: Recognizing Lance Simmons on the occasion of his retirement.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Lance Simmons on the occasion of his retirement.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Lance Simmons on the occasion of his retirement as chief engineer of the Texas Department of Transportation after a distinguished 32-year career; and WHEREAS, In 1993, Lance Simmons earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering as a Terry Scholar at Texas A&M University, and after graduating, he embarked on his impressive career with the Texas Department of Transportation in the Atlanta District Design Office; throughout the following three decades, he served in numerous key roles, including as a bridge and special projects engineer, director of operations, and district engineer of the Bryan District; and WHEREAS, In 2021, Mr. Simmons moved to Austin to assume the role of director of Engineering and Safety Operations, and he was appointed chief engineer in 2022; his astute leadership has been instrumental in creating a culture of safety and improving the department's overall communication and stewardship; and WHEREAS, Mr. Simmons led the department to record highs in project lettings, construction volumes, and pavement scores in 2024, and his dedicated service to the State of Texas was recognized with the 2014 Luther DeBerry Award; his management of the department and its operations during emergencies has contributed to the collective strength of all its employees and to the safety of drivers on Texas highways; and WHEREAS, Respected and admired by his colleagues in the department, Lance Simmons leaves behind an enduring legacy defined by the relationships he has cultivated and by the high standards he has upheld for the Texas Department of Transportation; as he looks ahead to enjoying his retirement alongside his wife Deanne, a fellow Texas Department of Transportation retiree, it is indeed fitting that he receive special recognition for his outstanding contributions to the Texas Department of Transportation and to the people of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby commend Lance Simmons on his exemplary career with the Texas Department of Transportation and extend to him congratulations on his retirement and best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Nichols President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 12, 2025.