Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCGov) Manager Blaine Williams has named Steve Decker as Transportation and Public Works Department Director. Decker will begin in his new role on May 4, 2020.

Decker previously retired from ACCGov in 2017 after more than 10 years of service as the Traffic Engineer and Division Manager of the Transportation and Public Works Department’s Traffic Engineering Division. He also served for four months as Interim Director during that time.

"During his previous time with Transportation and Public Works, Steve demonstrated an enthusiasm for safety, innovation, and collaborative projects that are still paying dividends today," said Williams. "He brings over 40 years of experience in both local and state government transportation departments that gives him a unique perspective that will serve this community well. Steve knows this community and its transportation systems. We look forward to welcoming him back to ACCGov." 

Prior to joining ACCGov in 2007, Decker worked with several local governments in New Mexico as a Community Development Director for the Town of Mesilla; the Senior Director of Infrastructure and Public Works in Dona Ana County, where he managed seven divisions; and as a Bicycle Planner for the City of Albuquerque.

Decker’s experience with transportation also extends to the state level. He was appointed to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and served for seven years as the Emergency Coordination Officer for managing statewide emergencies and the Safety Programs Manager.

Decker served in several other traffic engineering positions in Florida prior to his time at FDOT with Seminole County, Volusia County, and the City of DeLand. Decker also served in the U.S. Army as a Topographical Surveyor and is a Vietnam veteran.

"I am excited to return to ACCGov in this new role," said Decker, "especially with the incredibly talented staff who I’ll be joining in the Transportation and Public Works Department. I look forward to working with them as we serve the residents of Athens-Clarke County to ensure a safe and efficient transportation network."

Public Utilities Department Director Frank Stephens has served as Interim Transportation and Public Works Director since June 2019 when former director Drew Raessler accepted a position with Cobb County. Stephens will now resume his position as Public Utilities Director.

"I greatly appreciate Frank stepping in to lead the Transportation and Public Works Department in the interim role while we searched for a permanent candidate," said Williams. "He did a fantastic job of not only continuing the quality day-to-day work of the department, but also moving forward with a number of important long-term projects that will serve this community in years to come. I further want to thank Glenn Coleman for his service and leadership as Interim Director in the Public Utilities Department. His depth and background have been crucial."