October 23, 2000

GRTA Chair Receives Environmental Protection Award

Joel Cowan, Chairman of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, has been honored for his work to protect the environment.

Cowan received an Environmental Merit Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Southeast Region on Oct. 19. He was one of 16 individuals in eight southeast states to receive the honor in its first year, along with 31 non-profit organizations, government groups and businesses.

Cowan was selected from among more than 250 nominees because of his efforts at GRTA, as well as his life-long commitment to sustainable economic growth, said EPA Regional Administrator John Hankinson. Cowan was one of the original developers of Peachtree City, which set aside 20 percent of its area as public green space and boasts 80 miles of recreational paths. He also headed the Georgia Growth Strategies Commission in the 1980s.

Individuals like Cowan are making a big impact on the environment, said Hankinson. “One of the real transformations we are seeing is an increasing emphasis of citizens who have committed their professional and personal lives to the environment.”

Gov. Roy Barnes joined Hankinson in presenting the award to Cowan, calling the GRTA chairman “one of the most forward-thinking individuals I have ever met.”

“I’m proud to be here to honor Joel Cowan and all the other recipients of these awards,” said Barnes.

“This is not only a great honor for me,” said Cowan. “It also recognizes the importance of GRTA’s mission to protect air quality and promote better land use.” The Environmental Merit Awards ceremony was held at the Carter Center in Atlanta.