The Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) mourns the passing of Benjamin G. Watts, the longest-serving Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), who passed away on June 20, 2025, in DeFuniak Springs. A visionary leader, a dedicated public servant, and a mentor to many, Ben Watts leaves behind a legacy that transformed Florida’s transportation landscape and inspired a generation of professionals.
Born on July 30, 1947, in Florida and raised in Chipley, Ben Watts graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served with distinction in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 1974, he became a Registered Professional Engineer and began his career with FDOT in District Three. Over the next two decades, he rose through the ranks, ultimately being appointed Secretary of Transportation in 1989 by Governor Bob Martinez.
At the time of his appointment, FDOT faced significant challenges—low morale, public distrust, and financial instability. Through unwavering integrity, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to public service, Ben Watts restored confidence in the department. His leadership was so impactful that the Florida Legislature, despite political divisions, passed a gas tax increase in 1990—an extraordinary testament to the trust he inspired.
Reappointed by Governor Lawton Chiles in 1991 and 1995, Watts served until 1997, leaving behind a department that was financially stable, professionally managed, and more responsive to regional needs. He championed multimodal transportation, spearheaded the Florida Transit Block Grant program, and ensured that at least 15% of the State Transportation Trust Fund supported public transportation, including transit, rail, seaports, aviation, and intermodal projects.
His influence extended beyond policy. As Governor Lawton Chiles once said, “If I had to run the Gulf War, I’d be looking for Ben Watts to run it.” Watts was known for his monthly letters to employees, where he shared personal stories and emphasized values like hard work, teamwork, honesty, and loyalty—principles that defined his leadership style.
After retiring from FDOT, Watts continued to lead in the private sector, eventually becoming President and CEO of Carter & Burgess, Inc. He retired in 2008, but his legacy endured. In 2010, CUTR proudly inducted him into Florida’s Transportation Hall of FameÔ. Douglas Callaway, Executive Director of TEAMFL, introduced Watts during the induction ceremony. Remembering Watts, Callaway noted, “Leadership isn’t taught; it’s caught.”
CUTR Advisory Board member Lisa Llort captured the essence of Ben Watts: “He was a giant among men. Smart, caring, hardworking, strategic… He always had his employees’ backs and the welfare of Florida on his mind. He led FDOT to a more connected and collaborative future. He will be missed tremendously. A true leader.”
Ben Watts will be remembered not only for his transformative contributions to Florida’s transportation system but also for the lives he touched and the leaders he inspired. CUTR is deeply grateful for his legacy and honored to have recognized his extraordinary career.
