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Parking Authority Names New CEO

Steven Goode

June 08, 2010

The Hartford Parking Authority has named Mark K. McGovern as its new chief executive officer.

He replaces James Kopencey, who worked for the authority from 2004 to July 2009, when he took a leave of absence. He announced his retirement last month, citing health reasons.

McGovern, who begins work July 6, has worked for the city since 2005, first as director of economic development and most recently as the city's deputy director of the department of development services.

McGovern also spent five years with the city's economic development commission as deputy director and then acting executive director.

In his new role, McGovern will be responsible for all strategic, financial and operational activities including developing and implementing the authority's strategic plan, authority Chairwoman Paddi LeShane said in a statement Friday.

"Mark combines proven management experience with an extensive knowledge of Hartford, making him an ideal leader for our team," LeShane said. She said his involvement in city economic development initiatives would be helpful as the authority continues efforts to maintain and improve its three garages and two parking lots downtown, as well as on-street parking.

Acting Executive Director Carey Redd II will return to his position as associate director.

Created in 1998, the authority operates as a quasi-public agency and is responsible for creating and operating designated parking facilities in the central business district. It currently provides more than 4,600 garage spaces and 220 surface spaces. The authority also oversees 1,600 metered parking spaces.

In a statement released Friday, Hartford Mayor Eddie A. Perez called McGovern a valued member of the city's economic development team.

"Mark brings with him the confidence of the business community and has developed strong relationships with our neighborhoods," Perez said.