The AIA and Center for Architecture has just named David Burney former commissioner of New York City’s Department of Design & Construction and currently Pratt Institute professor as interim executive director of the AIA New York replacing Rick Bell.

The AIA and its current President Tomas Rossant issued the following statement:

David Burney’s vast experience leading City agencies and his legacy of improving the quality of public projects in New York will be an invaluable asset to AIANY as we work with the current administration on issues concerning creating affordable housing and reducing carbon emissions, among others. David is a tremendous design professional and we’re excited to have him onboard in this capacity.

The release also included a statement from the departed Rick Bell:

The fourteen years at AIANY have been a wonderful part of my life, but it is now time to move on to undertake new opportunities. I am proud to have helped create the Center for Architecture which has grown into a meeting place and community center for all in the design professions, and which brings in architectural enthusiasts from around the world. I express my thanks and admiration for all of the hardworking staff and for the inspirational boards both past and present who have allowed me the privilege of being at this remarkable place.