Michael Gallagher is the Town of Vienna’s new public works director, but he is not a new face to the Town or its residents. Gallagher has worked in Vienna’s public works department for six years, most recently, since May, as acting director. He was named public works director on Sept. 21.
Following graduation from Virginia Tech with a bachelor’s degree, Gallagher began his career in the private sector before joining the Town of Vienna in 2010 as a civil engineer. In 2012 he was promoted to deputy director of public works.
“Working in a small team teaches you to wear a lot of different hats,” says Gallagher, “and seeing the department from different roles has prepared me as director to better serve and engage with the community.”
As public works acting director the past four months, Gallagher made a positive impact on the Town’s infrastructure with a number of projects. The mini roundabout at Park and Locust streets addressed a congested intersection, and its construction was completed ahead of schedule. The Town Hall roof renovation also was promptly completed under his supervision.
Town Manager Mercury Payton has been particularly impressed with Gallagher’s focus on communication. “Watching him engage with citizens, interdepartmental staff, and other community stakeholders throughout key projects,” says Payton, “has made me confident that he is the leader and spokesperson the public deserves. He is the total package.”