Regional Infrastructure Leaders Honored at APWA SoCal B.E.S.T. Awards

More than 450 public works professionals and community leaders attended the APWA Southern California Chapter’s 26th Annual B.E.S.T. Awards Luncheon, which recognized exemplary projects and contributions across the region. Several client partners of Mark Thomas were among the honorees, highlighting significant achievements in mobility, safety, and regional connectivity.

In the Traffic, Mobility, and Beautification category, the City of Corona’s McKinley Street Grade Separation Project received recognition for its far-reaching benefits. The project improves safety, eliminates approximately 2.5 hours of daily traffic delays, and enhances community connectivity through its visually distinctive network steel-tied-arch suspension bridge, the first of its type in California, designed for vehicles. Mark Thomas supported the effort as the city’s project management consultant during design and construction.

The City of Eastvale’s Limonite Avenue Gap Closure Project was honored in the Transportation category for creating an essential regional link. The project introduced 2.4 miles of new vehicle lanes, 1.2 miles of Class I bicycle and pedestrian paths, and a 320-foot bridge featuring viewpoint plazas, cooling zones, and landscaped areas. Mark Thomas served as the project’s design engineer.

The event also highlighted community service efforts led by the APWA Southern California Chapter Young Professionals committee. A large Toys for Tots collection filled an entire 12-foot table with donations that were delivered to the City of Lakewood Fire Department.

The awards program showcased the collaborative work taking place across Southern California to improve infrastructure, enhance mobility, and support local communities.