Rusty Ligon has been named Gainesville’s planning director, according to Gainesville City Manager Bryan Shuler.

Ligon joined the Planning Department in 2003 as special projects manager. He had been serving as interim director since May.

Before coming to Gainesville, Ligon worked for Jordan, Jones and Goulding Inc. conducting redevelopment plans and small area plans for several Georgia cities and served as project manager for the Midtown Gainesville Redevelopment Plan. Ligon said he’s looking forward to being a part of the future of Gainesville.

"There are a number of exciting projects that are being planned and developed in the city. I am looking forward to being a part of these," he said.

Ligon earned a bachelor’s degree in regional and urban development from University of Alabama. The Jasper native and his wife, Carol Ann, have two children, Eli, 5, and Emily, 2.