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Parkway superintendent to retire

Parkway superintendent to retire

Blue Ridge Parkway Superintendent Mark Woods has announced his retirement from the National Park Service following four years in the position and a 37-year career with the agency.

“It has been such a privilege to have a career in the National Park Service,” Woods said. “The National Park Service serves to protect and tell the stories of some of our country’s most amazing places from presidential homes and sacred battlefields, to natural resource treasures like we have along the Parkway. National Park Service sites truly represent the best America has to offer.”

Over the course of his career, Woods has worked at 10 different National Park Service units in positions ranging from interpretive ranger to law enforcement ranger to superintendent. He came to the Parkway in September 2013, focusing on restoring services in previously closed facilities, ensuring high-quality visitor service and building strong working relationships with Parkway communities. 

Woods’ retirement will be effective July 3, with the search for an interim superintendent currently underway. A selection is expected soon.