American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Peer Review for Public Agencies

What Agency Directors Are Saying

"We have found the peer review report EXTREMELY helpful in determining the new direction for the Public Works Group. We were reviewing the revision of several titles, replacing several retirees and considering the consolidation of several departments. We were also working on reviewing our management practices, clarifying and updating our organizational chart, and working on improving internal communications. Much of this work was very controversial, both among staff and with the City Council. The peer review team did an exceptional job of engaging the staff. They completed the interviews in a clear and open environment, and completed the verbal and written reports in a very direct, but professional manner. They did an excellent job of addressing complicated and controversial issues...I just wanted to thank you for all of your quality work for the City, and commend ASCE for this terrific program!"

John P. Rodeberg, P.E., M.ASCE
Director of Public Works
City of Hutchinson, MN
30 full-time employees
December, 2003 Peer Review

"The ASCE Peer Review Team (PRT) completed a review of the Monterey County Public Works Department in 2002. The review was thorough, complete, and provided a roadmap for making changes within the Department that improved productivity, accountability, and overall Department performance."

Mr. Lew C. Bauman, Ph.D., P.E., A.M.ASCE
At time of review: Public Works Director
Currently: County Administrative Officer
Monterey County, CA
150 employees
October, 2002 Peer Review

"Four decades in the civil engineering profession have not dampened my quest for knowledge. There is still much to learn, and many ways to improve our organizations. One of the best management tools available, and certainly one of the most cost effective, is the ASCE peer review process. After having had three such reviews conducted on my own agency, and having been involved in six others as a peer reviewer, I can certainly attest to the importance of this process as a strategic management tool!"

Neal Kern, P.E., M.ASCE
Director of Public Works
City of Allentown, PA
June 1988, November 1989, and
May 1997 Peer Reviews