The City of Marietta's Public Works Department has secured a notable five awards at the Georgia Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) Annual Awards Banquet, as reported on the city's website. Recognized for their exceptional service and project implementations, they picked up two Leader of the Year accolades and three Project of the Year awards from a total of 20 that were handed out.
Leading the accolades, Richard Stokes seized the 2024 Transportation Manager of the Year award. His notable efforts in prioritizing the City of Marietta, and his ability to adeptly handle emergencies swiftly, earned him this recognition. "I am extremely proud of everyone in this department," said Mark Rice, the City's Director of Public Works, in a statement to the City of Marietta. "These awards are further validation that we have the best staff in the state!" Indeed, Stokes’ work overseeing the SPLOST Capital Program's construction and his management of multiple contractors and consultants every day has helped to significantly enhance the city.
Another department member, James “Kenny” Thomason, won the 2024 Right-of-Way (Streets) Supervisor of the Year for his respected presence within the community, fostering collaboration and teamwork across city departments. Thomason has consistently addressed residents' needs, thoroughly solving problems and upholding high standards.
The Powder Springs Streetscape Project clinched the 2024 Transportation ($5-$25 Million) Project of the Year award for the city, transforming the way pedestrians and vehicles navigate to the downtown district. With improvements like ADA accessibility and enhanced lighting, it significantly contributes to safety and accessibility. The large Mill Street Plaza Project was crowned the 2023 Quality of Life Project of the Year. It has effectively enhanced the entryway to Marietta Square with aesthetically pleasing brick plazas, improved drainage, and a monument featuring historical storytelling—a testament to the collective efforts and collaboration of various city departments.
Finally, the city earned the 2024 Environmental Project of the Year for the State of Georgia for its innovative Roll Cart Conversion Program, moving from an outdated sanitation collection process to one that aligns with current industry standards. This program has not only improved efficiency but also offered flexibility by providing residents with an optional size roll cart for weekly curbside sanitation services, showing the city's commitment to environmental sustainability and service quality.
