City Manager Melissa Stevenson Diaz announced the appointment of Tanisha Werner as the new Director of Engineering and Transportation. With an impressive background in municipal engineering and a dedication to public service, Werner brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of delivering impactful projects.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tanisha back to Redwood City,” Stevenson Diaz said. “Her experience in engineering and her commitment to community service make her the perfect fit for this role. We look forward to her leadership in advancing our City’s infrastructure and transportation initiatives.”
Werner has over 18 years of progressively responsible experience in civil engineering, with a particular focus on infrastructure projects that benefit the public. She is a licensed professional engineer known for her collaborative approach, effective project management, and mentorship skills.
Most recently, Werner served as the Deputy Director of Infrastructure at SamTrans, where she was instrumental in managing the design and construction of critical infrastructure for the transition to zero emissions. Prior to her tenure at SamTrans, she held the position of Assistant Public Works Director/City Engineer at the City of Menlo Park. There, she oversaw a $100 million Capital Improvement Program and led a team responsible for private development review and utilities sections. Her leadership ensured timely and budget-compliant delivery of significant infrastructure projects.
Werner’s earlier career included progressively responsible roles with the cities of Sunnyvale and Santa Clara, and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. Notably, she began her public service career in Redwood City as an Assistant Engineer, managing roadway resurfacing programs and capital improvement projects.
Werner holds a Master of Public Administration from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Fresno State University.
Werner expressed her excitement about returning to Redwood City, saying, “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the Engineering and Transportation Department in Redwood City. This city holds a special place in my heart as the starting point of my public service career. I am committed to leveraging my experience to enhance our city’s infrastructure and to work collaboratively with our community to achieve our goals.”
The Community Development and Transportation Department was reorganized into the Community Development Department, which houses Planning and Building Services, and the Engineering and Transportation Department, following a recent organizational assessment. As Director of Engineering and Transportation, Werner will oversee land use and development functions, including land development, engineering, and transportation. Additionally, she will have functional responsibility for the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which covers utilities, civic projects, and construction inspections.
Werner will begin her role on July 15.