Matthew J. Amorello

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Matthew J. Amorello (March 15, 1958–) is a former chairman of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority who presided over the Big Dig from 2002-2006. As such, he has been blamed by many for its perceived shortcomings. Mitt Romney sought to have him removed from office, but the Governor does not personally have such power. A Republican, Amorello was appointed by then-Governor Jane Swift.

Due to pressure from Romney and the apparent end of the Big Dig, Amorello had promised to resign in 2007. More recently, after the collapse of a portion of the roof of the Ted Williams Tunnel, in which 38-year-old Milena Del Valle, of Boston's Jamaica Plain section, was killed, Romney called for a more immediate removal. On July 27, 2006, Amorello agreed to resign, effective August 15.

[edit] Education

Bachelor's degree in history from Assumption College in Worcester; master's degree in public administration from American University in Washington, D.C.; Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston.^[1]

[edit] Work history

Appointed chairman of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority by acting Gov. Jane Swift in February 2002. Appointed commissioner of the Massachusetts Highway Department in 1999 by Gov. Paul Cellucci after a failed congressional bid. Served as state senator from Worcester, 1991-1998. Ranking minority member of the Joint Committee on Transportation.^[2]