MANSFIELD — As city engineer, Bob Bianchi has been involved behind-the-scenes of many local projects.
On Thursday, Bianchi will be recognized for his hard work with an Economic Excellence award from the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce at its annual dinner.
“He goes well above and beyond his role as the city engineer,” said Jodie Perry, president and CEO of the chamber. “When he does projects, he really does them with an eye to community enhancement and adds small things that make the project look nicer.”
Perry added that Bianchi also excels at bringing people together. He was a part of the Mansfield Rising project and spearheaded community improvements like the Upper Touby Run Flood Mitigation Project and two-way conversion of Mulberry Street.
“He works tirelessly to help make the city better for economic growth. Without him the city would not be as well off as it is,” said Tim Theaker, mayor of Mansfield.
Cliff Mears, president of Mansfield City Council, praised Bianchi for his extensive work, but also for his ability to explain it clearly to council and the public.
“What sets Bobby apart from others who do this kind of work is his ability to make complicated projects understandable to you and me,” said Mears. “If it were not for the maps, the thorough and comprehensive explanations, the endless patience for council’s questions, and the rare ability to make a compelling case for the benefit to Mansfield . . . these things wouldn’t happen.
“It’s not all one-sided, either. Bobby makes clear the costs, the trade-offs, in each new objective — fairly and honestly.”
Bianchi said he was both humbled and motivated by the award.
“It’s a reminder of the relationship between infrastructure and economic growth,” he said. “When we plan a project, we often times consider the potential for economic development. It’s nice to get recognized for those efforts.”
He also made a point to share credit with his co-workers.
“I work with so many good people and certainly wouldn’t have this opportunity without them,” Bianchi said. “Really, this award is a testament to the hard work done by the Engineering Department. I am proud to be a part of such a great team who cares about the work they do.”
