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Dennis, city engineer and interim administrator, outlines Washington capital projects and outreach
Summary
Dennis, the City of Washington’s city engineer and interim city administrator, describes ongoing capital projects — street reconstructions, storm sewer work and drainage upgrades — and urges residents to give feedback about how projects affect daily life.
Dennis, the city engineer and interim city administrator for the City of Washington, said he has worked for the city for five years and is balancing engineering work with administrative duties.
"I have been with the city of Washington for 5 years and my current role is not just the city engineer but also the interim city administrator," Dennis said, describing a mix of capital-project oversight and day-to-day administration that keeps his schedule variable.
He listed the city’s main projects under way: the North and Grant Street Safe Routes to Schools project, a complete reconstruction on Catherine Street, a Cedar Street drainage project southeast of the square, and the recently completed Grand Isle storm sewer project. "Some days I get to do a little more city engineer work with our capital projects," he said.
Dennis urged residents to contact city staff with feedback on construction impacts and long-term results. "We like to hear from the community…how have these projects been working for you? Were the contractors working well with you as a resident?" he asked, emphasizing the value of before-and-after perspectives.
On accomplishments, Dennis highlighted replacing old infrastructure and seeing tangible improvements when driving through neighborhoods after work is finished. "Really replacing some of those really old infrastructures…It's been great to drive those afterwards and really look at the before and afters," he said.
He also spoke about life outside the office: he has four children, three of whom attend the local schools, and he spends much of his free time with family. He named the downtown square and events such as Rope and Ramble as favored local spots, and said the family frequents Oak Ridge Park and Washington Park’s Winger Shelter.
"The thing that makes Washington the most special are the people that are here," Dennis said, citing a strong sense of community and neighbors who look out for one another.
The interview provided a brief overview of downtown and neighborhood-focused capital work, an invitation for resident feedback, and a reminder of how local officials and staff balance technical projects with community relationships. For residents seeking more information on specific project timelines or contractor contacts, the city’s municipal offices are the point of contact.
