The Lake Barkley Partnership for Economic Development, which serves Caldwell, Crittenden, Livingston, and Lyon counties, has announced the appointment of Garrett Clark as its new executive director.
In his new full-time position, officials said Clark will be responsible for leading and coordinating economic development initiatives throughout the four-county region, according to officials.
Clark, a Benton native and 2018 Marshall County High School graduate holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Murray State University (2022) and a master’s in economic development (2023).
Clark steps into the role following Amanda Davenport’s resignation last summer. Davenport, who had been the Partnership’s executive director since 2018, left to become the executive director of the Eddyville Riverport & Industrial Development Authority.
Clark previously worked as a business development coordinator for Graves County Economic Development in Mayfield. There, officials said he promoted business growth, created publications, connected students with career opportunities, and organized Plant Manager Roundtable Discussions to encourage collaboration among industry leaders.
In a written statement, Clark expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead economic development efforts in the four-county Lake Barkley Partnership region. He highlighted the area’s potential for job creation and investment, which he said can improve the quality of life for residents. Clark expressed his excitement to begin working to enhance economic opportunities for the communities in the Lake Barkley region.
Partnership President Tim Capps, also the president of Par 4 Plastics in Marion, said they look forward to Clark’s leadership in promoting economic growth and enhancing collaboration throughout the region.
The Partnership has reportedly played a key role in projects like Hydro-Gear’s expansion, Work Ready Community certification, a Build Ready site certification, and Eddyville Riverport renovations. By strategically investing resources, officials said the Lake Barkley Partnership seeks to build a resilient and diverse economy, supporting current businesses and attracting new investments in western Kentucky.
The Partnership’s office is located in Marion at the Crittenden County Office Complex.
