MDOT names Erick Kind engineer for Grand Region

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) appointed Erick Kind as its engineer for the Grand Region on Thursday.

"I am excited to build on the Grand Region's history of putting customer service first," Kind said. "Roger Safford is a friend and mentor, and I hope to carry on with his vision for delivering innovative transportation solutions for MDOT's Grand Region."

Kind’s new role makes him the top administrator for the area. He will oversee approximately 1,400 miles of trunkline throughout 13 west Michigan counties. He will also supervise 187 employees, a yearly maintenance budget amounting to $36 million and a capital program amounting to $80 million.

Kind grew up in the Grand Rapids area. He attended Northview High School and Michigan State University.

During his 21 years serving with MDOT, he has been the Grand Rapids Transportation Service Group’s manager and a member of multiple statewide teams, such as the Workforce Development Foundation Learning Team and the Regional Prosperity Initiative.

Roger Safford, the current engineer for Grand Region, is scheduled to retire from his position on Dec. 31. He has worked at MDOT for 28 years. 

"Roger Safford set a high bar, building relationships with business leaders and local officials while leading the statewide Transportation Asset Management Council and overseeing the completion of major projects like M-231 in Ottawa County," Mark VanPortfleet, MDOT chief operations officer and deputy director, said. "We are confident that Erick will continue the focus on economic development and quality of life."