John F. Palmieri has submitted his resignation from the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA), effective May 1.

Palmieri took over the director post in 2007 and led the authority through the economic downtown and put it on a path of recovery, according to a statement. Under Palmieri, the authority also reduced costs in its own budget and opened its processes up to Bostonians via evening public meetings, live broadcasts on television and online and other measures.

"I’m proud that the authority and Boston have weathered the economic downturn and emerged strong and vibrant. As the city looks ahead to a new phase of growth, I am ready to pursue new challenges," said Palmieri.

"I thank Mr. Palmieri for his steady leadership during very tough times," Boston Mayor Thomas Menino said. "Under John’s direction, the BRA helped our economy move forward and our city continue to grow. John cares tremendously for cities and for their people, and it showed in his work here."

Palmieri is the agency’s 15th director. Prior to joining the BRA he was director of the Department of Development Services in Hartford, Conn. The BRA director is a member of the mayor’s cabinet and oversees economic development and planning for the city of Boston. Upon a vacancy in the position, the mayor makes a recommendation to the BRA board of directors for a successor.