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David Kuisti Reflects on 35 Years with Idaho Transportation Department
Newly appointed Chief Deputy Director oversees 1,200 employees and 12,000 miles of Idaho highways
Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:31pm
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David Kuisti, the newly appointed Chief Deputy Director of the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), has had an impressive 35-year career with the agency. Kuisti, a native of Kellogg, Idaho, has worked across the state, from North Idaho to the Treasure Valley, and has held multiple roles, including serving as the chief engineer at ITD headquarters. In his new position, Kuisti is responsible for overseeing nearly 1,200 ITD employees and a statewide road operation that spans 12,000 highway miles and more than 1,800 bridges.
Why it matters
Kuisti's extensive experience and knowledge of the agency's operations and challenges will be crucial as ITD works to keep pace with Idaho's rapid growth, particularly in the Treasure Valley. The agency faces ongoing funding and resource challenges, as well as the need to balance public expectations with the complex engineering and coordination required for major infrastructure projects.
The details
Kuisti began his association with ITD as a student at the University of Idaho, where he discovered his passion for civil engineering. He started as a summer intern, working on the Wallace Viaduct project on Interstate 90. Over the years, Kuisti has held various roles, which he says have given him great perspective and the ability to relate to the struggles faced by the agency's staff. Kuisti emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, funding, and workforce training to ensure ITD can continue to meet the state's transportation needs.
- Kuisti began his career with ITD as a student intern in the 1980s.
- Kuisti was recently promoted to the role of Chief Deputy Director in 2026.
The players
David Kuisti
The newly appointed Chief Deputy Director of the Idaho Transportation Department, with 35 years of experience at the agency.
Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
The state agency responsible for maintaining and improving Idaho's transportation infrastructure, including 12,000 miles of highways and more than 1,800 bridges.
What they’re saying
“I've always enjoyed the work, but I love working with teams we've had; so many dedicated individuals who have spent their entire careers striving to get the work done and maintaining our highways.”
— David Kuisti, Chief Deputy Director, Idaho Transportation Department
“Quite often we hear opposing points of view, which is good, because it helps us find the best solutions.”
— David Kuisti, Chief Deputy Director, Idaho Transportation Department
What’s next
Kuisti and the ITD team will continue to focus on efficient use of resources, technical training for new staff, and long-term planning to address Idaho's growing transportation needs, including the ongoing expansion of Highway 16 in the Treasure Valley.
The takeaway
Kuisti's 35-year career with ITD highlights the agency's crucial role in maintaining and improving Idaho's transportation infrastructure, even as the state experiences rapid growth and change. His experience and dedication will be essential in guiding ITD through the challenges ahead, from funding constraints to public expectations, to ensure the state's roads and highways can keep pace with the needs of all Idahoans.
