WPCOG Hires Transportation Planning Manager

Transportation is one of the key issues that impact the mobility of residents and businesses, affects economic development efforts and enhances the quality of life for residents. The Western Piedmont Council of Governments (WPCOG) serves as the federally designated organization responsible for transportation planning for the region including Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties. Elected officials from each of the 28 local governments in the region appoint delegates to the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Planning Organization which is housed in the WPCOG. That group is responsible for leading the prioritization of transportation projects including highway, public transit, and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Over 103 transportation projects are planned to begin for the Western Piedmont region during the next five years with a total cost exceeding $1.3 billion.

The WPCOG is pleased to announce that Brian Horton will serve as the next Transportation Planning Manager and lead staff support for the Greater Hickory Metropolitan Planning Organization. Horton will begin work on Monday, April 2, 2018.

Horton previously served as a transit planner and transportation planner with the Charlotte Area Transit System and the City of Charlotte. Horton also served as a transportation planner with the East-West Gateway Council of Governments and served as the Executive Director of the Southwest Neighborhood Improvement Association both in the St. Louis, Missouri region. He brings over 14 years of transportation experience to the Western Piedmont. Horton is a graduate of the St. Louis University with a B.A. in Urban Affairs and Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development.

WPCOG Executive Director Anthony Starr said of Horton’s hiring, “Brian brings a tremendous amount of transportation knowledge and experience to our region. His experience with various modes of transportation planning really stood out from the other candidates. He possesses the right skill set and demeanor to build strong relationships with our local stakeholders and state and federal officials.”

Brian Horton said, “I look forward to helping the Greater Hickory area respond to regional transportation needs using creative, collaborative strategies.”

The WPCOG is regional planning, service and economic development agency that is owned by and serves the 28 local governments in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba Counties.