Rich Lazer Departing PPA
(Philadelphia) — The Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) announced today that Rich Lazer will be departing the PPA effective May 31st. Lazer has served as Executive Director of the PPA for the past three years.
The PPA formally accepted Lazer’s resignation during today’s Board meeting.
“Rich’s partnership with the board over the past three years, coupled with the dedication of every PPA employee, has stabilized our operations, strengthened our organization and restored our credibility,” said Lynette Brown-Sow, Chairperson of the PPA Board.
“While we will miss the face and the voice many of us have come to love, our mission remains unchanged. Our work continues. Our commitment to the communities we serve is unwavering,” she said.
Commenting on his departure, Lazer said, “I’m grateful to the Board for their leadership, partnership, and trust over the last three years. Together, we helped turn this agency around and move it forward in a real way.”
“I’m most proud of the progress we made — strengthening public safety and improving the quality of life across our neighborhoods,” he said.
“We have one of the best workforces in Philadelphia. I want to thank the entire PPA team for their dedication and commitment to serving the public every day. I’m leaving with a lot of pride,” he said.
During Lazer’s tenure the PPA earned widespread praise and recognition, including Philadelphia Magazine’s first-ever ‘Best City Agency’ designation.
The PPA named current Deputy Director Gabe Roberts as Interim Executive Director effective June 1st. The Board will select a search committee to begin searching for a permanent successor.
“Gabe Roberts came to the PPA in 2023 after twelve years at the Philadelphia Courts where he earned a stellar reputation for strategic planning and communications. Gabe has worked closely with Rich — having been involved in every major PPA decision since his arrival. He has demonstrated tremendous leadership and management skills, coupled with sharing the Board’s vision for expanding the PPA’s emphasis on public safety and quality-of-life initiatives,” said Brown-Sow.