The City of Arlington Public Works Department has been awarded its third reaccreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA). APWA is an international professional association that recognizes public construction agencies committed to promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy and knowledge.

APWA North Texas Chapter President Jay VonAhsen presented the reaccreditation award to Public Works Director Keith Brooks during the evening council meeting on February 28, 2023. Designation as an accredited agency is an honor for the City of Arlington as it is only awarded to agencies that have been willing to undergo an intensive self-evaluation process that requires agencies to thoroughly evaluate department-wide policies, procedures and practices.

In January 2021, the department began the process of becoming reaccredited by reviewing over 534 management and operational policies, practices and procedures to ensure compliance with the latest industry standards. After completing the self-evaluation, evaluators from Ohio and British Columbia and department staff met in July 2022 to review department operations. The results of the review concluded that the department met or exceeded all applicable established standards.

One practice was designated as a “model practice” for other public works agencies to implement in their organization. Stormwater Education Division’s “Turn Around Don’t Drown®” art contest as a model practice for other public employment agencies to implement in their organizations. The campaign was recognized as a creative way for children in grades 3-5 to illustrate the dangers of cycling, riding or walking through floodwaters.

Click here to learn more about the City’s Stormwater Management programs.

At the time of initial accreditation in July 2010, the department became the third agency in the state of Texas and the 59th agency in North America to receive the prestigious designation. Today, APWA has over 30,000 members and 179 accredited agencies in North America.

To learn more about the Public Works Department’s programs and services, visit the department’s website.

Improve regional mobility, stormwater

News, Government, Public Works, Streets, Headlines