Tempe Public Works Department is responsible for the stewardship of all city-owned infrastructure systems. This includes the street network, lights and signals, bridges, storm drains, public buildings, golf courses, parks and pathways, transit system including buses and bus stops, water distribution and wastewater collection. The city’s infrastructure system plays an important role in maintaining sound economic conditions and a high standard of living for the community. Public Works uses a formal asset-management based program for managing more than $7 billion worth of investment in city infrastructure.
Tempe Public Works Core Work & Asset Management Philosophy
A formalized asset management program is a fundamental construct in ensuring the maximum value for publically owned infrastructure through both preventive and capital maintenance to extend the useful life of city assets. At the policy level, asset management is defined as a methodology to efficiently and equitably allocate resources amongst valid and competing goals and objectives. At the staff level, the purpose is more specific and involves Systems Thinking and Proactive Behavior.
Under the direction of Public Works Director, Don Bessler, the Public Works Department consisting of more than 400 employees is responsible for maintaining and renovating the city’s infrastructure. In addition to infrastructure management, Public Works provides life essential city services to Tempe businesses and residents: trash and recycling and transit operations; as well as internal services that include the care and maintenance of public buildings and the maintenance and repair of the fleet of city vehicles and equipment. Public Works is also responsible for the procurement of all contracts related to design and construction within the city.
Learn more about the Public Works Department organizational structure and management philosophy.
Contact Us:
31 East 5th Street, Garden Level
Tempe AZ 85281
(480) 350-8371
For media inquires related to Public Works, contact Amanda Nelson at 480-350-2707. For transportation and transit related questions, contact Sue Taaffe at 480-350-8663.