Archived News: This news release is more than one year old and may include outdated information.

Madison’s City Engineer Robert “Rob” Phillips will retire at the end of April after over three decades of service to the City.

Phillips graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering in 1987. His career continued with promotions to more advanced engineer positions leading Public Works projects, managing federally-funded projects and leading the City’s Bridge Inspection and Construction Program.  From 1992 until 2010, he served as Principal Engineer for the Transportation Design Section, and Assistant City Engineer.  In 2010 he was promoted to City Engineer and has served in that role for the past 12 years.

“Rob’s work leaves an incredible legacy in the infrastructure of our city,” said Mayor Rhodes-Conway. “He has provided steady and conscientious guidance to the Engineering Division over the years, and has been instrumental in many City-wide projects. His experience and expertise will be missed.”

Phillips was involved in significant projects like the construction of John Nolen Drive in conjunction with the construction of Monona Terrace, the reconstruction of East Washington Avenue, the construction of County Highway M and rebuilding of most of the major streets that serve downtown.  He additionally led the City’s Emergency Operations Center during the 2018 floods, which also led to the watershed studies underway in the city now.

“I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish over my time with the City,” Phillips said. “We have been named best place to live, we’ve achieved platinum bike rating, we’re among one of the safest cities of our size for pedestrians, and so much more. These are not my personal accomplishments. It is an effort that involves every department. We collectively provide quality service to our residents and visitors and it shows. It makes a difference.”

The City will conduct a nationwide search for Phillips’ successor. Engineering Division Deputy Division Manager Kathy Cryan will serve as interim manager of the Engineering Division.   

Contacts

Category: 
City Hall