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The City of Suffolk’s Public Works Department has been recognized for its excellence in transportation planning and project management, receiving the 2025 Locally Administered Program Award from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

The award, presented by VDOT’s Hampton Roads District Office, highlights Suffolk’s strong leadership and consistent performance in managing transportation projects under the state’s Urban Construction Initiative. Suffolk was singled out for staying on schedule with funding allocations, keeping projects within budget, and effectively managing both state and federal dollars.

“This award is a testament to the City of Suffolk’s commitment to excellence in transportation planning and project execution,” said Wanda Moore, program manager for VDOT’s Urban division of the Locally Administered Program. “Their proactive approach to infrastructure improvement offers a model for other localities in the region.”

The Urban Construction Initiative gives local governments greater control over their transportation programs while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. It shifts responsibility for project delivery from VDOT to local agencies, encouraging a more hands-on, community-focused approach.

Suffolk is one of six Hampton Roads localities participating in the initiative, along with Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach.

City officials said the award reflects years of investment in improving transportation infrastructure to better serve residents and support future growth.