ANNISTON, AL — The City of Anniston has announced that Toby Bennington, Director of Economic Development and Planning, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Alabama Transportation Planners Association (ATPA). The award honors Bennington’s more than three decades of service and leadership in transportation planning throughout Alabama.
Bennington’s career spans over 30 years and includes contributions to three Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs). His work has helped shape strategic transportation projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, encouraging economic development, and improving quality of life across communities in the state.
“Transportation planners hold a very key role in our planning for social, cultural, and economic environments,” Bennington said. “I have been fortunate to work with so many dedicated, knowledgeable, and contributing people in this field over three metropolitan planning organizations and their member governments in the State of Alabama.”
Among his notable contributions is his role in supporting the extension of the Chief Ladiga Trail through Anniston, a project that has strengthened recreational offerings while boosting regional tourism and economic potential. He has also played a planning role with the East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (EARPDC) and its MPO.
“Since 1994, he has worked with three MPOs, forging partnerships with local and state leaders to create strategies that drive sustainable growth,” said Eric Wright, Director of Planning & Development for EARPDC. “His leadership has consistently demonstrated how thoughtful transportation investments are key to unlocking economic opportunities and enhancing community connectivity.”
Lori Sokol, Executive Director of EARPDC, added, “Toby’s dedication to EARPDC is clear in the strong connections he’s built across our region. His commitment to partnership and collaborative planning has empowered our communities to achieve shared, sustainable growth—an impact fittingly recognized by his ATPA Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The City of Anniston congratulates Bennington on the recognition and acknowledges his ongoing efforts to plan for a more connected and prosperous future for the region.
