Paul Nelson, transportation manager of the Clarksville Transit System, will become interim director of the system effective July 1, Mayor Joe Pitts announced.
In March, Arthur Bing Sr., CTS Director since 2014, announced he will retire from the post June 30 after 22 years with the City.
Nelson, 36, who joined CTS in 2012, also has served the city’s public transit system as a staff accountant and as a planner/business analyst. He holds two bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration -- one from Austin Peay State University in accounting, and one from Middle Tennessee State University in business management.
“I’m pleased that Mayor Pitts has asked me to serve as interim director while a search unfolds for a permanent leader,” Nelson said. “This is a busy time for CTS. We’re looking forward to several new buses being delivered in August, and we’re wrapping up the Transit Center renovation project. Plus, I’ll be working with the Mayor and Chief of Staff as we continue the search for a location for a new downtown Transit Center.”
The search for a permanent CTS director is under way. The position has been posted, and candidates will be evaluated by a search committee headed by Chief of Staff James Halford and Human Resources Director Will Wyatt. The committee also will include citizens and one or more members with public transportation expertise.
“As Arthur Bing’s top assistant, Paul has been involved in all aspects of our CTS operation for several years,” Mayor Pitts said. “He’s well prepared to keep the buses rolling and the system moving forward.”
Clarksville Transit has 92 budgeted employees and 10 daily routes providing more than 800,000 rides a year. CTS also provides The Lift, a transit van service for disabled and elderly riders.