Bimla and I started as Right of Way Agents back in 1987 in San Francisco. We went to the Academy together, where she acquired the nickname Bilma Bob. Bob was added to ALL of our names…guess you had to have been there. We worked together again in Stockton, in 1995. When she started to make her meteoric rise up the ranks, we would cross paths over the years, and always catch up about our personal lives. Bimla was one of the good guys, really going to miss her.
-Elwood
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It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I inform you that Bimla Rhinehart passed away last night. Bimla was very much a part of the Caltrans family for many years, a dear colleague while at the California Transportation Commission, and a friend to all of us. Her kind disposition, professionalism, and grace will endure in all of our memories.
She came to work for Caltrans over 27 years ago and worked throughout the Department in various positions in HQ and the Districts, most notably as our Right of Way Division Chief. In April 2009, Bimla was selected as the Executive Director of the California Transportation Commission. She retired from State service last month.
In a February 15, 2013 letter to Commissioners and staff announcing Bimla's retirement, Joe Tavaglione, Commission Chair, wrote, "Under Bimla's leadership as the Executive Director, the Commission has successfully supported the delivery of critical projects and programs throughout the state. The relationships she has developed with our stakeholders and partners helped foster our collective success. Her many years at Caltrans provided her with a broad expertise in transportation issues which in turn enabled her to excel as our Executive Director. Our gratitude and appreciation for her efforts cannot be overstated." Her contributions while at Caltrans will be continue to have an impact for many years to come.
Bimla Rhinehart was a dear friend and will be missed by all who new and loved her.
Malcolm Dougherty
Caltrans
Director
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