[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 6 (Wednesday, January 16, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E19]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E19]]


 IN MEMORY OF TEXAS TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION CHAIRMAN RICHARD ``RIC'' 
                               WILLIAMSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 16, 2008

  Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember The Honorable 
Ric Williamson, former Chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission 
and a dear friend of mine.
  Ric began his 23-year tenure in faithful public service to the state 
of Texas in 1984, when he was elected as a State Representative. In 
2001, he was appointed by Texas Governor Rick Perry to serve on the 
Texas Transportation Commission, and was named chairman in 2004. Ric 
served on several boards, including the Southern Regional Education 
Board, Legislative Budget Board, Department of Information Resources 
Board, Uniform Statewide Accounting System Committee, and the Southern 
Legislative Conference, to name a few.
  As Chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission, Ric's visions 
always aimed at improving the state of transportation and the quality 
of infrastructure in Texas. Many times his initiatives were deemed 
controversial or difficult, but his resolve and determination 
persevered and many of his harshest critics have come to respect and 
support his innovative transportation concepts.
  Ric will always be remembered by his friends and associates as a true 
champion for all things Texan. Unafraid to challenge the status quo, he 
was a highly regarded leader bringing innovative ideas to provide safe, 
economic and reliable transportation to improve the daily lives of 
Texans.
  On a personal level Ric remained a patient mentor and a steadfast 
friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Mary Ann and his 
family. Ric will be greatly missed.

                          ____________________