Maryland Governor Wes Moore has appointed Maricela Cordova, Montgomery County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOTs) special assistant to the director for strategic projects, to a four-year term on the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board. Ms. Cordova was introduced at her first MDTA Board meeting on March 27. The Board is responsible for constructing, managing, operating and improving the State's toll facilities, as well as for financing new revenue producing transportation projects. 

"Maricela Cordova’s extensive background and proven track record in the transportation sector make her the perfect candidate to serve this important role on the MDTA Board," said Governor Wes Moore. "Her leadership skills and innovative thinking will be an asset to the Board and to all Marylanders." 

Ms. Cordova brings more than 30 years of experience in architectural, engineering and construction programs to the MDTA Board. Since 2019, she has served in various roles with MCDOT including acting deputy director of transportation policy, acting division chief of transportation engineering and Purple Line implementation manager. Prior to that, she was a senior manager of design, preconstruction and project development with Clark Construction Group, LLC. She also has held architectural positions with Michael Baker Jr., Inc. and HKS Architects. 

"I am pleased with Governor Moore’s appointment of Maricela Cordova to this important position," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "Her knowledge, experience and leadership have been invaluable to our County’s goal of advancing innovative transportation solutions that promote equity, enhance safety and prioritize sustainability. Maricela is a dedicated public servant who is poised to make a tremendous contribution to Maryland’s transportation future." 

Ms. Cordova holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Universidad Anahuac in Mexico City. She is an International Associate Member of the American Institute of Architects and has served as the Mid-Atlantic Region Board Treasurer and Owners Committee Chair for the Design Build Institute of America since 2015. 

Throughout her career, Ms. Cordova has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and has consistently worked toward advancing transportation and architectural initiatives that positively impact communities.  

"Maricela Cordova is a welcome addition to the Maryland Transportation Authority Board," said MDTA Chairman and Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. "Her knowledge of design, construction and project delivery will greatly benefit the Board’s work, and her strategic vision will help us navigate the complex transportation challenges and opportunities we face." 

Established in 1971 by the Maryland General Assembly, MDTA is financed by toll revenue without relying on state tax dollars. As it works to connect customers to life’s opportunities, the agency is dedicated to innovative transportation solutions that improve connectivity, create opportunity, enhance safety, promote equity and support economic development. 

The MDTA Board is comprised of eight citizens appointed by the governor. Members serve four-year terms and cannot serve more than three consecutive terms.  

At the most recent Board meeting, Secretary Wiedefeld and Maryland Transportation Authority Executive Director Bruce Gartner both thanked outgoing Board Member W. Lee Gaines, Jr. for his service to the Board.  

"I am honored to receive this appointment by Governor Moore," said Ms. Cordova. "I am eager to collaborate on Maryland's most important projects and priorities, and I am committed to advancing the board's values of integrity, transparency and efficiency. With my expertise in transportation, I look forward to making meaningful contributions that will benefit the state and its future." 

Cordova has led large-scale, critical transportation and infrastructure projects for Montgomery County in her current MCDOT role.  

"We are so proud of Maricela Cordova for her appointment," said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. "Her expertise and dedication to leading critical projects and improving our local transportation systems make this recognition well-deserved."  

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