Texas Governor Abbott Mourns Passing of Transportation Chairman J. Bruce Bugg Jr.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott mourns the passing of Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg Jr., calling him a "remarkable and tireless public servant" who reshaped the state's infrastructure for the next 50 years. Abbott and his wife, Cecilia, are grieving alongside Bugg's loved ones, including his wife Alethea and sons, and the many Texans whose lives he touched.

Governor Greg Abbott expressed profound sadness over the sudden passing of Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg Jr., describing him as a "remarkable and tireless public servant" who reshaped the state's infrastructure for the next 50 years. Abbott and his wife, Cecilia, are grieving alongside Bugg's loved ones, including his wife Alethea and sons, and the many Texans whose lives he touched [1].

Bugg, who was 70 years old, passed away Wednesday morning following complications from back surgery [2]. He served as chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission since 2017 and was a prominent figure in San Antonio's business and cultural scenes. Bugg was also the chairman and trustee of The Tobin Endowment, a private charitable foundation, and a co-founder of the Bexar County Performing Arts Center Foundation, which owns the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts [1].

The Texas Transportation Commission, which oversees the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), faced criticism from local officials over plans for a pedestrian corridor on Broadway Street. However, Bugg's fearless approach to decision-making and his ability to bring people together were noted by those who knew him [2].

Abbott's statement highlighted Bugg's visionary leadership and his impact on Texas' infrastructure, saying, "He helped redesign our state’s infrastructure not just for today—but for the next 50 years" [1].

Bugg is survived by his wife Alethea and his two sons, Jim and Tom. His legacy will continue to shape the future of Texas' transportation and cultural landscapes.

References:
[1] https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2025/08/06/txdot-announces-sudden-passing-of-bruce-bugg-chairman-of-the-texas-transportation-commission/
[2] https://www.texastribune.org/2025/08/06/bruce-bugg-texas-transportation-commission/