October 25, 2017 - Mayor Tom Henry today announced City of Fort Wayne Public Works Director Bob Kennedy has accepted a position in the private sector.

Kennedy has served in the director position since 2007. In total, he has 33 years of service with the City. He previously served as deputy director of Public Works and City Utilities, street commissioner and accountant and purchasing agent for the City of Fort Wayne Street Department.


Under Kennedy’s leadership, the City has experienced record amounts of investments in neighborhood infrastructure improvements. From 2014 through this year, there has been $100 million in street, road, sidewalk and curb enhancement projects in neighborhoods throughout Fort Wayne. In addition, another $30 million in improvements is planned for 2018.

Kennedy was named public works director of the year in 2009 by American City & County magazine. He also oversaw successful advancements to Fort Wayne’s flood control efforts, improved salting and snow plowing operations and leads one of the top 10 fleet departments in the country. Kennedy also led innovative efforts that resulted in cost-savings, new technology and best practices in project management that have benefited the entire community.

“Bob has given his entire professional career to this point to the City of Fort Wayne and he did so in a professional manner and always put residents first,” said Mayor Henry. “I admire his commitment to providing excellent customer service, and I appreciate his passion for ensuring we have a safe and efficient transportation system. His leadership has helped make Fort Wayne a point of destination for jobs, great neighborhoods and desirable quality of life amenities. Bob will be missed.”

Kennedy will be available to the City during the transition period through the end of November. City Engineer Shan Gunawardena will serve as interim director of the City’s Public Works Division until a permanent replacement is named.