Home » Lextran’s Carrie Butler named new TARC executive director

Lextran’s Carrie Butler named new TARC executive director

Carrie Butler
Carrie Butler

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Former Lextran General Manager Carrie Butler has been appointed to be TARC’s new executive director, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer and the Transit Authority of River City Board of Directors announced Thursday that after an extensive national search.

“Carrie brings a broad base of experience in the transit field, a great knowledge about TARC operations and a solid reputation in management to this new role,” said Fischer. “She brings stability and energy at time that TARC needs both, and I’m excited about her plans for moving this agency forward.”

With over 20 years in the field of transit and public service, most recently as general manager of Lextran — Lexington’s public transit agency (2014-2020), as well as previous experience as the director of planning for TARC (2002-10), Butler has an extensive background at all levels of the transit industry, as well as a dedication to community engagement, and collaborative work with local, state and federal funding agencies.

“TARC’s critical role in the everyday life of our passengers and the regional service we provide is an important element of the economic future of the city we call home,” Butler said. “I am honored to serve the agency as executive director and excited to work with this committed team of experienced professionals once again to proudly deliver quality public transit to the Greater Louisville region.”

The region’s primary bus service, TARC is dedicated to its role in moving the workforce of today and tomorrow. With 63% of trips taken for work & another 20% for school, TARC is crucial in the region for delivering a qualified workforce to employers and for getting students to class.

“This position is so very important to the city and the public we serve each day,” said Mary Morrow, TARC board chair. “The interview process saw amazing candidates from all over the country, but Ms. Butler was the right choice. The board has no doubt TARC will thrive under her passionate and dedicated leadership.”

“It is clear Carrie has a life-long commitment and passion for public transit and the good it does for our communities,” said Laura Douglas, TARC co-executive director. “Ms. Butler will bring the knowledge needed to lead this agency on day one, as well as the energy and commitment necessary to move TARC forward.”

“Over the last several months, Ms. Douglas and I have had the privilege to work closely with the dedicated team of professionals at TARC,” said Margaret Handmaker, TARC co-executive director. “Ms. Butler’s extensive experience with management, planning and the efficient operation of transportation services will be a great value in supporting the TARC mission and ensuring the agency continues to provide great, sustainable service to the city.”

Butler’s first day as executive director of TARC will be Sept. 21.

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