North Carolina Transportation Secretary Tony Tata resigns

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Governor Pat McCrory says Tony Tata has resigned as Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation "to focus on personal and family matters in addition to pursuing his passion as an author."

"Tony Tata has been a valuable partner in our efforts to reform and modernize North Carolina's transportation system," Governor McCrory said in a statement. "His dedication to the people of North Carolina is in keeping with his long career of service to his community, state and country."

In an interview with ABC11 Tuesday, Tata said it was time for him to step down.

"This was something I felt I needed to do to take a step back from several years of working very very hard and spend time with family and spend time with the new book," he explained.

Prior to taking the helm at the DOT, Tata served as superintendent of the Wake County Public School System.

He also served in the US Army - reaching the level of brigadier general. He was awarded a bronze star.

Tata's resignation is effective immediately. Chief Deputy Secretary Nick Tennyson will serve as Acting Transportation Secretary.