Transportation Commission adopts resolution commending Tom Lynch on retirement

The Transportation Commission on April 9 unanimously adopted a resolution commending Tom Lynch for his service as the City of Madison director of transportation and wishing him well in retirement.

The resolution, read in full during the meeting, notes Lynch’s confirmation by the Common Council on June 19, 2018, and lists department accomplishments during his tenure, including the Vision Zero strategy, the Complete Green Streets ordinance, a transportation demand management ordinance, a Metro Transit network redesign and bus rapid transit implementation, and the integration of parking enforcement officers and crossing guards into the Department of Transportation.

Commissioners and staff praised Lynch during the meeting. Commissioner Harold Cleems moved adoption of the resolution and Commissioner Ravi (last name not specified in the meeting transcript) seconded the motion. Both speakers and several commissioners offered personal thanks and anecdotes before the formal vote.

Tom Lynch addressed the commission and thanked staff and commission members for collaboration over the past seven years, calling out the network redesign, Safe Streets Madison and other initiatives he said required “many hard meetings.” The commission approved the resolution by unanimous consent.

The commission also announced a public reception honoring Lynch on April 17 at noon in the Madison Municipal Building.

Why it matters: The resolution formalizes recognition of leadership credited with implementing multi‑modal and safety projects — items that shape Madison’s transportation policy and capital work going forward. The commission’s remarks also underline staff continuity and transition planning as Lynch departs.