LOUISVILLE (WHAS11) -- The president of the Waterfront Development Corporation, David Karem, announced he will be stepping down from the position at the end of July.
Karem has served as the president for 33 years. He led the effort to transform Louisville’s waterfront from blighted industrial wasteland to an award-winning park.
He also served in the Kentucky General Assembly from 1972 to 2004.
Deborah Bilitski has been appointed to succeed Karem as president. She will start on Aug. 1. She is currently serving as the Vice President/Deputy Director and has been in that position since January 2018.
“Deborah is a wonderful choice as the Waterfront Development Corporation’s new leader. A talented lawyer who is well-versed in real estate and legislative matters, she brings valuable experience from both the public and private sector and a commitment to taking the Waterfront to the next level with the Phase 4 expansion," Mayor Fischer said.
The Waterfront Development Corporation said Karem will be involved for the next year as Director Emeritus.
The Waterfront Park Office Building will be renamed David K. Karem Building to mark his leadership and service.
“On behalf of the entire community, I want to thank David for his dedication and leadership over the past three decades reclaiming Louisville’s waterfront for the people by transforming scrap yards and heavy industrial sites into a world-class park that has played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Louisville,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “David is true public servant, and our city will forever be changed by his incredible vision and commitment.”
Another long-time Waterfront employee, Margaret Walker, announced her retirement too. Walker joined Waterfront in 1989 as one of the organization’s first staff members. She has served in numerous capacities for Waterfront, including as the primary grant writer for the first three phases of the park and as chief information officer.
“Margaret Walker has been an important member of the Waterfront team whose contributions were invaluable to the entire development of the park,” Karem said. Walker will retire on July 31.
