Now that Section Tuda-Gilau is being readied for traffic, Autostrada Transilvania officials announce a changing of the guard at the top of the Romanian project.

Project Manager Mike Mix, who has been in Romania since the start up of operations is departing for a Bechtel Civil global headquarters in London, where he will develop new business in the Infrastructure field. In his stead, Bechtel officials announce the appointment of Mike Swinford, former Project Director of the motorway being built by Bechtel and Enka in Albania.

“The AT project has been a fascinating experience for me,” said Mike Mix. “I am grateful to my partners as we worked over the years to untangle some of the most complex challenges in terms of geotechnical, logistical and planning issues. I am also proud that, working together, we have succeeded in overcoming many obstacles and in particular that the project has made such significant progress in the last twelve months. I am sure that with this first Turda to Gilau section ready for traffic, the Bechtel-Enka Joint Venture is now on track to pick up considerable speed in the completion of the AT Highway," added Mix. ‘Mike Swinford is the ideal replacement as he has in excess of 30 years’ experience working on major construction projects around the world, and will bring this considerable experience to bear for the benefit of the project and Romania.”

The official changing of the guard in Romania's AT will occur on December 2nd, 2009, but Mike Swinford is already in the country to get acquainted with the Romanian operations.

Opportunities for interviews with the new AT manager will be announced separately.