The International Conference on Ecology and Transportation (ICOET) awarded Alex Levy, VHB Ecology Practice Lead, the 2025 Legacy Award in honor of his more than 35 years of leadership in transportation ecology and 24 years of service to the conference and its organization. Alex was recognized at the opening ceremony of the 2025 ICOET Conference in Denver, Colorado, on May 12.
ICOET, organized by the Road Ecology Center at University of California-Davis, is the country’s foremost interdisciplinary, inter-agency supported conference and training organization addressing the broad range of ecological issues related to transportation systems across all modes. Its members are multidisciplinary across transportation and ecology, and include state departments of transportation, academicians, scientists, consultants, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and more.
“I’m deeply honored to be recognized by my community of practice with this important award,” said Alex. “Roads transform ecosystems, which affects wildlife movements—from gopher tortoises to panthers—and our landscapes. ICOET involvement has enabled me to actively participate and help steer the practice of meeting evolving ecological challenges while making a positive impact for both two and four-legged stakeholders.”
At VHB, Alex spearheads the Atlanta Ecology Practice, conducting environmental assessments and implementing conservation strategies for infrastructure and land development. He also mentors junior staff on projects aimed at improving transportation and enhancing livability throughout Georgia. As a certified Professional Wetlands Scientist (PWS), ISA Certified Arborist, and road ecologist, Alex assists clients such as the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) with wetland delineations, protected species investigations, general ecological studies, impact assessments, permitting processes, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation.
Alex has previously served as an international technology transfer and research liaison for the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Alex also actively participates as both a member and past chair of several research panels and standing committees of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) under the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
“We are thrilled to see Alex recognized on a national level,” said Erin Murphy, VHB Georgia Environmental Services Director. “His collaborative approach and ecological insight have helped us enhance coexistence between Georgia transportation infrastructure and natural habitats.”
Learn more about environmental services at VHB.
