Deputy Director

Niles Barnes

A champion for sustainability and developing walkable and bikeable communities, Niles Barnes joined the East Coast Greenway Alliance in 2013 and currently serves as deputy director.

"Being part of the Alliance allows me to collaborate on strategies to not only develop the physical trail, but also contribute to the creation of a sustainable future that includes more healthy and prosperous local communities along the entire Eastern Seaboard." 

Based in Durham, N.C., Niles provides internal and external strategy for the Alliance. Working across departments, he implements strategies for Greenway advocacy and public policy initiatives and contributes to organizational operations, program delivery, finance and technology.

"I'm fortunate to work with an outstanding team of staff and volunteers committed to improving public health, environmental sustainability, economic development, and civic engagement. Together, we are connecting people to nature and communities via a safe, accessible Greenway."

Niles graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Kentucky and received his master’s degree in environmental management from Duke University. He is a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and holds a certificate in business administration from the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics.

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