Asheville Reporter

Paul Ballard, a nationally recognized transportation executive, is set to join Asheville’s Transportation Department as the new Interim Transportation Director effective Monday, April 29. Ballard brings with him a wealth of experience, having led transit systems in Fort Worth, Nashville, and St. Louis, among others, before retiring in 2019. He has a background in major infrastructure projects, staff development, and employee retention strategies.

In a statement, Debra Campbell expressed her enthusiasm for Ballard's appointment, saying, “I look forward to having Paul Ballard serve as our Interim Transportation Director. His experience and knowledge will support the department as we search for a permanent Transportation Director." Campbell also commended Jessica Morris, who will continue to serve as the Assistant Director of Transportation, for her dedicated service in managing the responsibilities of both Interim Director and Assistant Director over the past four months.

Ballard himself shared his excitement about the new role, stating, “Asheville is an opportunity to make a difference in my own community, where I’ve chosen to raise my family over the last twenty-eight years." He also praised the management structure of Asheville, saying, “Given that, and the knowledge, openness and professionalism I’ve seen at the top of Asheville’s management structure, I simply could not resist bringing home some of the things I’ve learned along the way."

The City Manager’s Office is actively recruiting for the City’s next Transportation Director with the aim of filling the permanent position later this summer.