Fort Worth Transportation & Public Works Department earns multiple honors at 2026 APWA event
Fort Worth, Texas – The Transportation & Public Works Department earned statewide recognition for excellence and innovation after receiving multiple honors at the 2026 American Public Works Association Public Works Workshop. The event, held in February in Fort Worth, brought together public works professionals from across the region to highlight achievements that strengthen infrastructure, improve efficiency, and protect the environment.
Department leaders said the awards reflect the dedication, skill, and forward-thinking approach of employees who work daily to serve residents and safeguard community resources.
Innovation and infrastructure excellence recognized
Among the top honors, the department received the Management Innovation Award for its Stormwater Operations Dashboard. The award recognizes management practices that improve efficiency and service delivery. The dashboard provides real-time access to stormwater system data and supports informed decision-making across the organization.
The map-enabled system tracks stormwater asset growth and inventory counts, including pipes, inlets, channels, culverts, and bar ditches. It also highlights asset expansion and total value while incorporating condition assessments and Business Risk Exposure scoring. This allows staff to prioritize inspections and maintenance, helping prevent failures and improve long-term system performance.
The department’s Concrete Team earned Project of the Year in the Structures Category, which honors new public structures and preservation or rehabilitation projects. The recognition highlights outstanding craftsmanship and a strong commitment to quality public infrastructure, demonstrating excellence in construction and long-term community benefit.
Individual achievements highlight professionalism and service
Several employees were honored for exceptional performance in the field.
Paul Olea received the Field Excellence Award, which recognizes individuals whose actions have a significant impact on public services and environmental protection. He was honored for exceptional customer service, innovative approaches, and achievements that increased productivity and produced cost savings while supporting public works goals.
Jimmy Kersey was named Equipment Operator of the Year, an award that recognizes employees whose equipment operation skills exceed standard expectations. His precision, commitment to safety, and consistent performance were cited as setting a high standard for professionalism and reliability.
Kevin Stone also represented the department at the workshop’s Roadeo Competition, earning second place in the Zero Turn competition. The event tests technical skill, focus, and operational expertise among equipment operators from across the region.
Department-wide commitment to service and improvement
Officials said the honors reflect not only individual accomplishments but also a collective commitment to innovation, service, and operational excellence. Each award reinforces the department’s mission to deliver high-quality public works services while continuously improving operations and environmental stewardship.
By combining innovative technology, skilled craftsmanship, and dedicated field work, the department continues to enhance infrastructure systems that residents rely on daily. Leaders noted that investments in efficiency and proactive maintenance help extend asset life, reduce costs, and improve service reliability.
The Transportation & Public Works Department congratulated all award recipients and teams recognized at this year’s workshop, noting that their efforts make a meaningful difference in the community every day. Their work, officials said, demonstrates how public service, innovation, and teamwork come together to build stronger and more resilient communities.
