Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced the death of J. Bruce Bugg Jr., chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission.
The governor called Bugg a “remarkable and tireless public servant” whose vision for infrastructure reshaped the state’s future.
Bugg’s sudden passing marks the loss of a key figure in Texas transportation planning. His work as commission chairman focused on designing infrastructure systems meant to serve the state for the next half-century.
Bugg, 70, a banker in San Antonio, reportedly died on Wednesday from complications following back surgery.
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the sudden loss of our close, personal friend Chairman Bruce Bugg,” said Abbott. “Bruce was a remarkable and tireless public servant whose vision and leadership reshaped the future of Texas.”
Abbott highlighted Bugg’s transformative role at the Texas Department of Transportation. The governor emphasized how the chairman’s planning extended beyond immediate needs.
“As Chairman of Texas Department of Transportation, he helped redesign our state’s infrastructure not just for today—but for the next 50 years,” Abbott said.
In addition to his role at TXDoT, Bugg also served as chair and trustee of the Tobin Endowment — a charitable foundation that supports the arts, theater, opera, and civic initiatives — and as chair, CEO, and president of Southwest Bancshares.
He previously served as a senior adviser to then-governor Rick Perry and as chair of the Texas Economic Development Corporation.
The governor expressed condolences to Bugg’s family and acknowledged the broader impact of the chairman’s public service career.
“We are grieving this loss alongside his loved ones, especially his wife Alethea and their two sons, and the many Texans whose lives he touched,” the governor said.