A major City Hall department has entered a new leadership chapter.

The City of Torrance announced Alvin Papa, P.E. as the city’s new Public Works Director, effective June 2, 2026. He succeeds longtime Public Works Director Craig Bilezerian, who announced his retirement.

The Public Works Director role matters because the department is connected to many of the city services residents notice most: streets, sidewalks, engineering, utilities, maintenance, environmental services, capital projects, and long-term infrastructure planning.

According to the city, Papa brings more than 25 years of experience in public works and civil engineering. He previously served with the City of Cerritos as Director of Public Works and City Engineer, overseeing areas including engineering, environmental services, utilities, and maintenance operations.

For residents, this is not just a personnel announcement. Public Works leadership can shape how Torrance manages infrastructure priorities, responds to service needs, plans major projects, and maintains the public systems people rely on every day.

Article Link: https://www.torranceca.gov/Government/Newsroom/City-of-Torrance-Announces-Appointment-of-New-Public-Works-Director