KANNAPOLIS — The city, on Monday, announced it has hired Kris Krider as its new planning director.
Krider brings more than 20 years’ experience to Kannapolis, most recently in the neighboring town of Davidson where he served as planning director and economic development manager for the past eight years, a press release said.
Krider has worked on a number of high-profile projects, including the N.C. 73 land use and economic development plan created jointly with Kannapolis, Cabarrus County and Concord.
His work has also included affordable housing projects, comprehensive community livability planning, bicycle and pedestrian safety initiatives, and a natural assets inventory, the press release said.
Through public-private partnerships, the press release said, Krider reinvigorated downtown main street development and established a business and enhancement program for Davidson. He has managed a parking use initiative and the establishment of nearly 600 contiguous acres of public open space near the Kannapolis extra-territorial jurisdiction.
“Kannapolis is in the midst of tremendous positive change from a number of outside influences,” City Manager Mike Legg said in the press release. “Kris will be a great addition to our already excellent staff. His extensive experience will be a tremendous asset as our city continues to grow and prosper in a smart, sustainable way. We are excited to have him join our team.”
Krider is a proponent of preserving design and community integrity through “smart growth” principles, the press release said. He has extensive background in developing livable cities with green infrastructure, local food initiatives and emphasis on historic preservation of downtowns and open space protection.
Krider, his wife, Michele, and two daughters are Indiana natives. He earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master’s of architecture from the University of California at Berkeley. He is a member of the American Planning Association and the American Institute of Architects. Krider joins the staff of Benchmark CMR Inc., the planning, zoning and code enforcement contractor for the city of Kannapolis.