PROVIDENCE - Mayor David N. Cicilline announced today that he will appoint Paul J. Thomas - the former Director of Public Works for the Town of West Warwick - to take the helm of the City's Department of Public Works. Thomas replaces John Nickelson who recently accepted a position in the Federal Highway Administration.

Thomas, a construction and engineering executive, has held significant leadership positions in the Cranston and West Warwick public works departments.

"I am pleased to announce Paul Thomas' appointment as Director of Providence's Department of Public Works," said Mayor David N. Cicilline.  "His experience and his professional credentials qualify him to continue the great work being done by the Department of Public Works."

"Paul's management background and hands-on public works experience will make him a valuable member of my Administration," the Mayor continued.

Thomas, a Certified Engineer since 1986, is a graduate of the University of Rome, Italy, and has served as Senior Engineering Technician for the City of Cranston (1986-1996), Construction Manager at Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy (1996-1997), Assistant Director (1998-2000) and Director (2000-2009) of Public Works for the Town of West Warwick, where he led a team of up to seventy five employees.

"I am deeply honored to be chosen for this position in Providence," said Paul J. Thomas.  "I look forward to working with my colleagues in the City and at DPW, to serve the people of Providence."

Thomas is slated to begin on July 14.