City Manager Erik Walsh Says Reinhardt Brings the Right Experience at the Right Time
San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh has appointed Art Reinhardt as the new Director of the Public Works Department, effective January 5, 2026. His selection follows a national search and marks the first permanent leadership appointment since the department was reorganized into two separate divisions — Public Works and Capital Delivery — in 2025.
The City’s Public Works Department is charged with the infrastructure residents interact with daily: streets, sidewalks, traffic signs and signals, right-of-way management, and drainage systems. The 2025 reorganization allows Public Works to focus on maintenance and operations, while Capital Delivery manages major project construction and long-range capital improvements.
A Career Public Service and Engineering
Reinhardt brings more than two decades of engineering experience in both government and the private sector. He most recently served as Bexar County Engineer and Public Works Director, and previously led regional operations for national engineering firm WSP USA Inc. From 2013 to 2020, he advanced through leadership roles within the City’s former Transportation & Capital Improvements (TCI) Department, including serving as Interim Deputy Director. His expertise spans stormwater operations, transportation planning, and infrastructure management.
City Leadership Confident in the Choice
“Public Works has been focused on the work residents see every day — street repairs, drainage maintenance, and traffic operations,” City Manager Walsh said. “After a national search, I’m confident Art Reinhardt has the experience and judgment to lead the department and deliver critical projects on time and within budget, while strengthening how we communicate with residents and project partners.”
Reinhardt said he is honored to return to the City and build on his past experience. “Residents interact with City streets, sidewalks, drainage, and traffic infrastructure every day, and together as a staff we will ensure it makes a positive impression,” he said. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from UT Austin.
Leadership Transition Ahead
Major General (Ret.) Juan Ayala, who has served as Interim Public Works Director, will resume his role as Military and Veteran Affairs Director in January 2026.
