Michael Lewis, the No. 2 at the Colorado Department of Transportation, has been promoted to lead the agency as it works to address the state’s crisis-level roads situation.

Gov. John Hickenlooper announced the appointment on Monday.

“Mike has a reputation as a problem solver and brings an incredible transportation background to CDOT at a time when our state is faced with significant transportation challenges,” Hickenlooper said in a written statement. “His experience with some of the biggest projects in our state is critical as we build upon the successes of the last few years. I look forward to seeing his leadership as we embark on significant future projects.”

Lewis, CDOT’s chief operating officer and deputy executive director, was earlier named interim executive director.

Lewis takes over CDOT after its current executive director, Shailen Bhatt, announced last month he was stepping down next month to become the president and CEO of the Intelligent Transportation Society of America.

CDOT is ramping up to begin its $1.2 billion Interstate 70 expansion project through Denver. It is also looking to widen Interstate 25 between Monument and Colorado Springs.

On top of those two priority projects, CDOT is also under pressure to deal with congestion on the I-70 mountain corridor.

All of these issues come as Hickenlooper and state lawmakers have been working — so far to no avail — on a funding solution to pay for all the upgrades and needed repairs.

“I’m honored to have the chance to work for Gov. Hickenlooper in this capacity and be part of this Cabinet,” Lewis said in a statement. “CDOT has an incredible opportunity in the next few years to address many of our safety and congestion problems, whether moving forward with very needed projects, continuing to improve the customer experience with a focus on the operations of our system, or advancing transportation technology through our RoadX Program.”

Lewis will begin his role next month.