SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 507
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Lance Simmons on the occasion of his retirement as
chief engineer of the Texas Department of Transportation after a
distinguished 32-year career; and
WHEREAS, In 1993, Lance Simmons earned a bachelor's degree
in civil engineering as a Terry Scholar at Texas A&M University,
and after graduating, he embarked on his impressive career with
the Texas Department of Transportation in the Atlanta District
Design Office; throughout the following three decades, he served
in numerous key roles, including as a bridge and special projects
engineer, director of operations, and district engineer of the
Bryan District; and
WHEREAS, In 2021, Mr. Simmons moved to Austin to assume the
role of director of Engineering and Safety Operations, and he was
appointed chief engineer in 2022; his astute leadership has been
instrumental in creating a culture of safety and improving the
department's overall communication and stewardship; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Simmons led the department to record highs in
project lettings, construction volumes, and pavement scores in
2024, and his dedicated service to the State of Texas was
recognized with the 2014 Luther DeBerry Award; his management of
the department and its operations during emergencies has
contributed to the collective strength of all its employees and
to the safety of drivers on Texas highways; and
WHEREAS, Respected and admired by his colleagues in the
department, Lance Simmons leaves behind an enduring legacy
defined by the relationships he has cultivated and by the high
standards he has upheld for the Texas Department of
Transportation; as he looks ahead to enjoying his retirement
alongside his wife Deanne, a fellow Texas Department of
Transportation retiree, it is indeed fitting that he receive
special recognition for his outstanding contributions to the
Texas Department of Transportation and to the people of the Lone
Star State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby commend Lance Simmons on his exemplary
career with the Texas Department of Transportation and extend to
him congratulations on his retirement and best wishes for the
future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
Nichols
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on May 12, 2025.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate