Regional Plan Association mourns the loss of Lyle Wray, who ran the Capitol Region Council of Governments in Hartford for close to two decades and was an active member of RPA’s Connecticut Committee for almost as long. Lyle was especially active with RPA’s America 2050 program, sharing his powerful insights about the growth and governance of metropolitan regions and how to improve them. With his keen wit, friendly charm and brilliant intellect, Lyle was equal parts regional planner, political philosopher, and humanist.

At an America 2050 research seminar hosted by RPA and the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy in 2009, Lyle shared with participants his observations about the difference between good politics and bad politics. Good politics, he explained, was making what is necessary politically possible. Bad politics, on the other hand, is making sure your opponents do not win at any cost. Lyle always kept his focus clearly on promoting the public good and thinking creatively about ways to deliver better policy to improve people’s lives. We are thankful for his contributions and friendship, and send condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed.

His obituary and information regarding his memorial service can be viewed here.