Hampton Roads Transit taps new President/CEO
William E. Harrell has served as Chesapeake's city manager since June 2007 and is credited with helping the city reduce spending while sustaining core services without an increase in taxes or fees.
The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads selected William E. Harrell as the new president/CEO of Va.-based Hampton Roads Transit.
Harrell, the city manager of Chesapeake, will replace Philip A. Shucet, who was hired in February 2010 to help complete construction of The Tide light rail.
After rail service began in August 2011, Shucet initiated a series of internal reforms to improve HRT's overall management practices and make HRT a more publicly accountable organization. Shucet is returning to his private transportation consulting business.
Harrell has served as Chesapeake's city manager since June 2007 and is credited with helping the city reduce spending while sustaining core services without an increase in taxes or fees. With 26 years in public service, Harrell has spent much of his career focused on operations including public works, fleet maintenance, public utilities and transportation.
While Shucet's contract originally ended Jan. 31, 2012, he has agreed to stay until March 31. Harrell begins work at HRT on April 2.
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