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“THANKING MR. RICK CHESSER” mentioning the U.S. Dept. of Transportation was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E1463-E1464 on July 12, 2005.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
THANKING MR. RICK CHESSER
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HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.
of florida
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Mr. Rick Chesser for his 35 years of support and dedication to the State of Florida as an employee of the Florida Department of Transportation. Rick has decided to retire from public services, yet at the time of his departure, he was the longest serving District Secretary with 17 years of service to District 4, which encompasses Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties.
Throughout his 17 years with the Florida Department of Transportation, Rick has compiled a lasting legacy. Under his watch, the district received much needed funding and he opened constructive dialogue between the district, the public and local elected officials. It should also be highlighted that within District 4, Rick allocated numerous hours to ensure mobility of constituents while simultaneously keeping the best results for the environment and quality of life at heart.
In particular, Rick's commitment to South Florida's public transportation system was never more evident when he served as project director for Interstate 595. Through this project, the Port Everglades Expressway was created, Interstate 75 was constructed, and Interstate 95 was widened in two of the five counties within his district. From there, funding was received for a tri-county rail system providing even greater accessibility for South Florida commuters.
As construction progressed with these numerous projects, Rick ensured the attractiveness of the land by providing District 4 the highest level of amenities in the state for landscaping, paver blocks, and decorative lighting. He also worked with individual cities to assist them in development plans that would shift with population growth.
Mr. Speaker, Rick Chesser's work for the State of Florida and that of District 4 will not be forgotten. Rick has made great strides in the development of various areas to raise the morale and the quality of life for all residents. We are indebted to him and to his service for the past 35 years. My staff and I wish him all the best in his retirement.
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