VALPARAISO | The city has a new engineering director for the first time in 15 years.

Mayor Jon Costas announced that Tim Burkman will replace Dave Pilz, who retired effective Oct. 1. Burkman has served as chief deputy city engineer since 2005.

"We're so pleased to have someone of Tim's quality and experience as city engineer," Costas said. "His transition to city engineer ensures a seamless transition and continued growth in this key department."

The appointment took effect on the same day the city received an award for environmental excellence from Gov. Mitch Daniels for the design of Vale Park Way, which Burkman helped design while employed by the engineering consulting firm of DLZ Indiana.

He also managed the construction of the road after joining the city.