[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Robin Hutcheson as Chair of the Metropolitan Council, effective December 1, 2025, for a term expiring on January 4, 2027. Hutcheson will fill the Chair seat vacated in September by Charlie Zelle and currently occupied by Interim Chair Deb Barber.

“Robin Hutcheson is a proven leader who has dedicated her career to enhancing roadway safety, improving quality of life, and strengthening connections between people,” said Governor Walz. “From leading national transportation policy to improving infrastructure here in Minnesota, she has shown what it means to lead with collaboration, innovation, and heart. Her extensive experience will be invaluable as the Metropolitan Council continues its work to build a stronger, more connected, and more equitable region for all Minnesotans.”

“The Metropolitan Council plays a vital role in shaping the future of our region and I am deeply honored to be appointed by Governor Walz to serve as its Chair,” said Hutcheson. “I look forward to working alongside dedicated Council members, staff, local leaders, and residents to create opportunity for every community we serve.”

"I am thrilled that Robin will be stepping in as Chair,” said former Metropolitan Council Chair Charlie Zelle. “Her experience at both local and national levels, combined with her thoughtful leadership style, will serve this region well. She’s an acute listener with vision and backbone, exactly what we need.”

“Minneapolis has seen Robin Hutcheson turn big goals into real results — and I know she will be a fantastic Met Council Chair,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “She’s someone local governments can count on to work collaboratively on the big issues: housing, transit, infrastructure, and ensuring that regional governance works for our neighbors.”

“Working with Robin in her role as a Senior Fellow at UMN's Center for Transportation Studies, I saw firsthand how effectively she applies her deep technical expertise to challenges facing Minnesota and the Metro area,” said Kyle Shelton, Director of the Center for Transportation Studies at the University of Minnesota. “I’ve also seen her navigate complex discussions where different perspectives and priorities come into conflict. She is a strong choice for Met Council’s next chair.”

About Robin Hutcheson 
Robin Hutcheson is a nationally respected leader in transportation, infrastructure, and mobility. Robin previously served in two senior leadership positions in the United States Department of Transportation, appointed by President Biden and reporting to the Secretary of Transportation. As the Senate-confirmed Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, she led a research and regulatory agency of over 1,200 people nationwide to improve roadway safety and support a stronger supply chain. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy, she was a key contributor to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law including core transportation assets, transit, and was the author of the first of its kind $5B Safe Streets for All grant program for local government. She previously served as Director of Public Works for the City of Minneapolis, the Director of Transportation for the City of Salt Lake City, and the president of the board of directors of the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO). Robin’s experience also includes a long history as a private sector consultant at the local, national, and international scale with a specific focus on transit. Robin leads with transparency and positivity and is a connector of people and ideas. She spends her free time skiing, swimming, and in nature.

About the Met Council 
The Met Council is a state-funded regional planning agency that serves the Twin Cities' seven-county metropolitan area. The council's mission is to work with local communities to guide growth and develop a comprehensive regional planning framework that focuses on transportation, wastewater, housing, parks, and aviation systems.