Obama issued a statement thanking LaHood for his service at DOT, saying he “has fought to create jobs and grow our economy by rebuilding our roads, bridges and transit systems. Under his leadership, we have made significant investments in our passenger rail system and laid the groundwork for the high-speed rail network of the future.”

LaHood, a Republican, came to DOT after serving seven terms in the House, representing the Peoria, Ill., area and gaining a reputation for bipartisanship.  

LaHood did serve on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for several years, but he was not on the lists of those rumored for the DOT Secretary’s job four years ago.  Observers say his successor may also be a surprise choice.

Deery says, “I’ve heard a lot of inside-the-Beltway names. I wouldn’t be shocked at all to see an outside-the-Beltway person picked, to be honest with you.”

All departing leaders leave unfinished business. John Horsley, who himself is retiring Feb. 1 as the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials executive director, praised LaHood's accomplishments and said, "The Secretary’s announcement today that he plans to step down from his position comes at a crucial time for the industry." Horsley said AASHTO will work with LaHood and his successor to implement policy and regulatory changes contained in last year's Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) "and to identify a long-term, sustainable funding source for our nation’s transportation system."

Modified Jan. 30 to include LaHood's age.