ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – A retired Tompkins County employee is receiving recognition.

Fernando de Aragon has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New York State Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (NYSAMPO).

De Aragon, who retired in 2025, served as Executive Director of the Ithaca Tompkins County Transportation Council (ITCTC) for nearly 28 years. He is credited with boosting participation with local municipalities, transportation providers, elected officials, and community organizations. He focused on expanding transport choices, reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicle travel, and improving walking, bicycling, and public transit opportunities.

“Fernando’s impact on transportation in Tompkins County can be seen in projects that residents use every day,” said ITCTC Director Tom Knipe. “His ability to bring people together around a shared vision has left an enduring mark on our community. On behalf of the ITCTC and our many partners, we congratulate Fernando on this well-deserved statewide recognition and thank him for his decades of public service.”

During his tenure, de Aragon helped advance projects including Ithaca Carshare, Ithaca Bikeshare, Bike Walk Tompkins, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, Black Diamond Trail, Dryden Rail Trail, South Hill Recreation Way, and East Hill Recreation Way.