Published date: May 18, 2026
Left to Right: John Lawlor (2026 Chapter President), Bill Riccio, Patrick Yeo (Awards Chair)
The New England Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) proudly announces that William Riccio, Jr., PE, will be recognized at the upcoming APWA Public Works Expo (PWX) national conference as a recipient of the Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year Award.
This prestigious national honor recognizes outstanding career service achievements by public works professionals and officials across the country.
Bill has served as Director of Public Services for the City of Newport, Rhode Island, for the past 18 years. In this role, he has overseen the city’s infrastructure, public spaces, and essential services, including roads, beaches, parks, facilities, waste management, and fleet operations. Since 2007, Bill has led a dedicated team of 50 staff members, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Prior to joining the City of Newport, Bill spent 17 years with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) as a project manager, where he supervised and managed multimillion-dollar highway engineering projects, including interstates, state highways, and local transportation facilities.
Bill is also an active member of the APWA New England Chapter Board of Directors, where he represents the state of Rhode Island. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he has remained deeply engaged in his community, volunteering his time in various roles, including serving as a member and former chair of his hometown Planning Board.
From mentoring junior staff and college students to pursuing grant funding and driving continuous improvement, Bill has consistently worked to leave every organization and community stronger than he found it.
Riccio was formally recognized at the Chapter’s Annual Public Works Week Luncheon on May 20, 2026 and will receive his award during the PWX conference, APWA’s premier annual event that brings together thousands of public works professionals from across North America.