Transportation Secretary Mullan To Step Down For 'Personal Reasons'

BOSTON (CBS) - Various reports suggest Secretary of Transportation Jeff Mullan will be stepping down from his post this fall, but Mullan said Thursday those reports "are premature."

Mullan confirmed that he spoke with Gov. Deval Patrick in May about his "intention to transition from the administration within the year for personal reasons." But, he added that no "final decision" has been made.

He said that while he still intends "transition" out of his position, no "final plan" has bee made.

"I am fully engaged in the role of Secretary and CEO at MassDOT and look forward to leading the organization in the weeks and months ahead," said Mullan in a statement.

WBZ-TV's Karen Anderson reports.

Mullan has held leadership positions for the state's transportation department since 2007. He was the first Secretary and CEO of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), which was launched in November 2009.

Gov. Patrick released a statement about Mullan's decision.

"Jeff Mullan continues to be a creative and effective partner to this Administration," said Governor Patrick. "Whenever he leaves, we will all feel that loss, and his leadership at MassDOT will be missed. I will continue to support Jeff and his family in whatever he decides to do next."