Larry Ogden Promoted to Public Works Director for the City of Valdosta
The City of Valdosta is pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Larry Ogden to the position of Public Works Director. With a distinguished 26-year career within the city, Mr. Ogden's promotion recognizes his exceptional leadership and contributions to the Traffic and Street Management Division.
Larry Ogden joined the City of Valdosta Engineering Department in November 1997, starting in the Sign Shop and rising through the ranks to his most recent position as Traffic Manager. In this role, he managed 14 positions and coordinated activities within the Traffic Division, overseeing wireless and fiber projects, traffic systems functionality, and various maintenance responsibilities.
Mr. Ogden's recent accomplishments include the successful installation of new equipment at all 128 signaled intersections city-wide and the implementation of a cutting-edge wireless SMART system, making Valdosta the first city in Georgia to employ such technology on a city-wide scale. His meticulous oversight of the Traffic Management Center (TMC) resulted in the seamless integration of new operation system software and equipment, contributing to optimal traffic flow during peak hours at the new Valdosta High School.
Under Mr. Ogden's leadership as Traffic and Street Manager, the city experienced a significant decrease in traffic and signal-related complaints. His commitment to excellence is evident in his strategic personnel choices, contributing to improved internal operations.
"I am deeply honored to be promoted to Director of Public Works," said Mr. Ogden. "I am excited to continue serving the City of Valdosta in this new capacity and look forward to collaborating with our dedicated team to enhance our public works services and infrastructure for the betterment of our community."
Assistant City Manager Catherine Ammons also expressed her confidence in Mr. Ogden's abilities. "Larry Ogden has been an invaluable asset to our city for over two decades," said Ms. Ammons. "His expertise and dedication as the Public Works Administrator have significantly improved the department, and I have no doubt he will excel in his new role as Public Works Director."
Mayor Scott James praised Mr. Ogden's promotion, stating, "Larry Ogden's dedication and leadership have been instrumental in advancing our city's infrastructure. His promotion to Public Works Director is well-deserved, and I am confident that he will continue to drive progress and innovation in our community."
On April 4, 2022, the City of Valdosta received a 2022 SMART 50 Award for Mobility at the Smart Cities Connect Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Larry Ogden, Traffic Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the city. The project improved traffic flow and safety with enhanced mobility for area residents. Additionally, Mr. Ogden was a 2021 finalist for the World Smart City Awards and is a 2022 recipient of the Smart 50 Awards by Smart Cities Connect.
The City of Valdosta congratulates Larry Ogden on his well-deserved promotion and looks forward to his continued contributions to the City's growth and development.