Bailey Takes Over As New Arkansas Waterways Director
Joseph “Joe” Bailey was formally introduced to his fellow Arkansas Waterways Commission members at the commission’s July 17 meeting, its first since the departure of former executive director Cassandra Caldwell.
Bailey was named executive director of the Arkansas Waterways Commission effective May 27. He succeeded Caldwell, who had served in the role since 2020. Caldwell resigned in 2024 and now serves as government affairs manager of the Mississippi River and Tributaries region at American Cruise Lines (WJ, March 28, 2025).
Bailey brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in economic development, infrastructure coordination and strategic project management across public and private sectors. Most recently, he served for more than a decade as senior project manager of economic development and external affairs at Entergy Arkansas. Prior to that, he was director of business development at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. He holds a degree in manufacturing technology from Arkansas State University and a master’s degree in public administration.
“We are thrilled to welcome Joe to the Department of Commerce,” Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald said. “His experience and long-standing commitment to Arkansas’ economic development and infrastructure will be invaluable in this role.”
“Joe’s background and understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our river system make him a great fit for this role,” said John C. Edwards, chair of the Arkansas Waterways Commission. “We’re excited to have his leadership as we continue advancing Arkansas’ inland waterways as a critical part of the state’s infrastructure and economy.”
The Arkansas Waterways Commission is the sole state agency responsible for developing, promoting and protecting waterborne transportation in Arkansas. The commission also promotes economic development for ports on the state’s five commercially navigable rivers: the Arkansas, Mississippi, Ouachita, Red and White rivers.
