KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – Keene’s City Engineer is being promoted to Public Works Director.

The City of Keene announced Wednesday morning that Don Lussier will be stepping into the role on June 10th. He’s been with the city since 2016, and has decades of experience in civil engineering.

Lussier succeeds Kort Blomquist who retired at the end of last year after 30 years in the position.

As Public Works Director, Lussier will oversee essential services that impact the daily lives of Keene residents, businesses, and visitors. His responsibilities will include the management and maintenance of the City’s infrastructure, and the release says his leadership will be essential in high-priority projects such as the Downtown Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction project.

“Don has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership,
technical knowledge, and a deep commitment to serving the Keene community,” City Manager Elizabeth Dragon said. “His recent
experience managing complex infrastructure projects including streets, sidewalks, roundabouts, bridges, and grants management makes him uniquely qualified for this position.”

Lussier holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Insititute and he’s a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of New Hampshire and holds FEMA Emergency Management Institute certifications. He also served 10 years in the US Army and accumulated over two decades of experience in civil engineering.

The city says Lussier has played a key role in the successful completion of numerous infrastructure projects.

“His leadership with the recent Winchester Street project was instrumental to its success,” Dragon said. “We are fortunate to
have him at the helm of this important department, and I am confident he will continue to drive innovation and excellence in all aspects of our Public Works operations.”

Lussier said he’s humbled by the promotion.

“I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Keene City Engineer for the past 8 years. During that time, I’ve worked with an amazing team of hard-working, dedicated professionals,” he said. “Public Works is not just a job, it’s a calling. We create the conditions that make modern life possible. I’m very proud of the work we do and humbled to be chosen as the next Public Works Director.”

No word yet on who will replace Lussier as City Engineer.