In a ceremony in Washington, D.C., the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) recognized Congressman Chet Edwards for his ongoing efforts to champion transportation research.
Edwards, the U.S. Representative from Texas’ 17th District, was presented with the 2010 TTI Director’s Research Champion Award at the Institute’s January 10 reception at the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting. The Director’s Research Champion Award recognizes individuals at the national level who have been strong and effective advocates for transportation research.
“The real research champions are the people in this room who make our roadways safer, our air cleaner and our transportation system more efficient,” Edwards said in receiving the award, which is sponsored by Trinity Industries. “I will treasure this award because of my deep respect for TTI and all that you do.”
Congressman Edwards has made transportation a priority during his 18-year tenure representing 12 counties in his district, which includes Texas A&M University and TTI, located in College Station.
“We are honoring Congressman Edwards because he has secured vital federal investments to improve our nation’s transportation system and save lives on our public roads,” TTI Agency Director Dennis Christiansen said in announcing the award. “He is a true champion of university research and over many years has been, and continues to be, an outstanding supporter of TTI.”
Edwards is the first elected official to receive the award, which TTI established five years ago.