CHARLESTON, W.Va. –Members of the state Parkways Authority praised the soon-to-be retired longtime executive director Greg Barr during the authority’s meeting Thursday that originated in Charleston.
“I commend you for your long and faithful service to the state and obviously to the Parkways Authority,” Authority member Troy Giatras said. “I want to thank you for your insight and the help you’ve provided to me.”
Barr has been with the Parkways Authority, the agency that operates the West Virginia Turnpike, since 1989. He became executive director in late 2002 after spending several months as interim director. Barr was quick to praise Parkways staff.
“There are great directors at the Turnpike and without their help this job would be next to impossible and that makes it a lot easier when you have a lot of senior people with a lot of knowledge,” Barr said.
“He’s the most dedicated public servant I’ve ever worked with,” longtime Parkways General Counsel Dave Abrams told MetroNews about Barr.
“Greg you’ve been a dear friend and great general manager,” Authority member Doug Epling said.
Barr is being replaced Raleigh County Commission County Administrator Jeff Miller who listened in during Thursday’s meeting.
“I’ve not had a chance to meet him yet but I’m looking forward to it,” Barr said. “We’ll welcome him Monday morning and get down to business with him,” Barr said.
Parkways Authority Chair Bray Cary reminded members that Barr will remain on board for about six weeks to transition with Miller. Carey said Gov. Jim Justice is thankful Barr stayed on board after wanting to retire last year.
“He tried to leave a year ago and he stayed. The state will always be grateful for that,” Cary said.
Miller was appointed by Justice last week.