The Georgia Department of Transportation has named longtime Rome broadcaster Clarke Johnson as its new District 6 Communications Specialist, a position responsible for keeping Northwest Georgia residents informed about highway construction, road closures, traffic disruptions and transportation safety.

The appointment was announced November 8.

Johnson brings more than 25 years of experience in broadcasting, public communications and community engagement to his new position with Georgia DOT.

Much of his professional career was spent with Rome Radio Partners, where he held several leadership positions, including Program Director, Senior Traffic Director and Copy and Continuity Director.

In addition to his management responsibilities, Johnson has extensive experience in on-air broadcasting and providing public information during severe weather, traffic incidents and other situations affecting local communities.

His broadcasting career also included covering high school and college athletics and serving as a color commentator for the Rome Braves.

As Georgia DOT’s District 6 Communications Specialist, Johnson will work with district leadership, local governments, news organizations and community stakeholders to distribute information about transportation projects throughout Northwest Georgia.

His responsibilities will include providing updates on road construction, highway closures, traffic impacts, safety initiatives and other transportation developments affecting motorists.

The position is particularly important to Chattooga County and surrounding communities, where Georgia DOT oversees state highways and coordinates major road construction and maintenance projects.

Scott Higley, Georgia DOT’s Director of Strategic Communications, said Johnson’s broadcasting experience and familiarity with Northwest Georgia will be valuable in keeping residents informed about transportation projects and roadway conditions.

Johnson said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Northwest Georgia and emphasized the importance of providing clear, accurate and timely information to the public.

He succeeds Joe Schulman, who served as District 6 Communications Specialist for seven years before accepting a new position within Georgia DOT as Public-Private Partnership Communications Program Manager.

Georgia DOT’s District 6 headquarters is located in White, Georgia, and oversees state transportation infrastructure throughout Northwest Georgia.

Johnson’s appointment brings a familiar Northwest Georgia media professional into a position that will serve as an important source of information for local governments, news organizations and motorists across the region.