Gov. Susana Martinez has named a businessman from southeastern New Mexico to a commission that oversees the state Department of Transportation.
Robert Wallach of Hobbs fills a vacancy on the six-member state Transportation Commission, which sets policies for the department.
The 56-year-old Wallach runs a family-owned concrete business and also owns a ranch. Wallach is a former member of the Hobbs City Commission.
His appointment is subject to confirmation by the state Senate.
The department is responsible for the state's network of highways and bridges.