The resolution honors Patty Rubstello for her exceptional 33-year career at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), where she began her journey in 1990. Throughout her tenure, Patty made significant contributions, including advocating for the I-405 corridor program, leading marketing efforts for the SR 167 HOT project, and implementing various tolling initiatives. She played a pivotal role in the development of "smarter highways" and took on leadership positions, culminating in her appointment as assistant secretary of WSDOT and head of Washington State Ferries (WSF) in 2020.
Patty's dedication to public service is highlighted by her commitment to her employees and her proactive approach to addressing challenges within WSF, such as workforce strengthening and ferry reliability. Her efforts included attending ordinary sailor training to better understand the needs of ferry operators. As she prepares for retirement, the resolution expresses gratitude for her outstanding service and contributions to the state, recognizing her as a remarkable leader in transportation.