WESTFORD CENTER – Town Engineer Paul Starratt received the American Public Works Association’s National Professional Manager of the Year Award in Engineering and Technology on May 20, recognizing his nearly two decades of leadership, innovation, mentorship and dedication to the Town of Westford and the public works profession.
“Paul has helped shape the way Westford plans, communicates and invests in infrastructure,” the Westford Public Works Department said in a statement on May 21. “From securing more than $50 million in transportation funding, to advancing stormwater and sustainability initiatives, to modernizing the Engineering Department through technology and transparency, his work has had a lasting impact on our community.”
Public Works said Starratt received the award from the New England Chapter at the National Public Works Week Awards Luncheon and will also be formally recognized at the APWA National Conference in Houston in August.
Throughout his tenure as town engineer, Starratt has overseen major projects including the Boston Road Reconstruction Project, roadway and drainage projects, stormwater initiatives, as well as project updates and educational videos aimed at making complex infrastructure work easier for residents in town to understand.
Deeply committed to his role in public service, Starratt is also known to many residents as a mentor, problem solver and innovator.
“Paul approaches innovation with a ‘curious but cautious’ mindset — embracing new ideas and technology while always maintaining accountability, public trust, and a focus on serving residents,” Public Works’ statement said. “We are fortunate to have Paul’s leadership, knowledge, and vision here in Westford.”
