On Wednesday, Feb. 25, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Board of Directors unanimously voted for Frank DePaola, as interim general manager of the MBTA.

The Board of Directors is granted the authority to appoint a GM given that a vote is taken and a unanimous decision agreed upon, per MassDOT’s enabling statute.

If DePaola, currently serving as MassDOT Chief Operating Officer as well as Highway Administrator, sounds familiar it’s because he also served as acting MassDOT Secretary until Stephanie Pollack was appointed in a full time capacity – the role was previously vacated by Richard Davey who now heads Boston 2024.

“I am pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has unanimously agreed to appoint Frank DePaola Interim General Manager as we undergo a period of transition with the MBTA,” said Pollack in a statement. “With the depth and breadth of Frank’s experience as an engineer, a manager, and a problem-solver, I have full confidence that he has the skill sets and capabilities to serve as Interim General Manager.”

Currently the GM of the MBTA is Dr. Beverly Scott who, on Feb. 11, tendered her resignation effective April 11. Scott’s decision came hot on the heels of comments made by Gov. Charlie Baker, who criticized the embattled transit system for its inability to perform full service during times of inclement weather of historic proportions.

“I cannot think of a better, more qualified person to take the reins immediately, and provide the necessary leadership to move our transit system in the right direction,” added Scott in a statement.  “I can leave this job I’ve loved, knowing that MBTA customers as well as employees are in very capable hands and I look forward to working with Frank during the transition process.”

It remains to be seen whether DePaola will uphold the position as GM for longer than the interim. After speaking with multiple sources close to the search for a permanent successor to Scott, BostInno has identified some other potential candidates.

He brings almost 40 years of transportation experience to the role, including knowledge “in the design and construction industry,” according to MassDOT.

MassDOT also announced that Thomas Tinlin, MassDOT’s Chief of Highway Operations and Maintenance, will serve as Acting Highway Administrator.