Following a nationwide recruitment process, Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton has named Briiana Velez as Director of the Street Transportation Department, effective Aug. 18, 2025.
Velez has served the City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department for more than 23 years, most recently holding the position of Assistant Street Transportation Director since October 2018. As Assistant Director, she provided leadership over several key divisions including Traffic Services, Street Maintenance, Design and Construction Management and Management Services, overseeing the department’s $150 million operating budget and $1 billion five-year Capital Improvement Program. Briiana also led the development of important initiatives to make Phoenix roadways safer and more accessible including the Vision Zero Road Safety Action Plan and the Active Transportation Program.
“I am confident that Briiana will continue to deliver excellent service to the residents of Phoenix, while advancing innovative transportation solutions,” said Barton. “Her ability to create strong relationships within our community will continue to shape the streets we share every day.”
Velez's deep commitment to serving the residents of Phoenix has grown over her more than two decades in the Street Transportation Department. Her progression from Civil Engineer III to Engineering Supervisor, Deputy Director, and most recently Assistant Director, has collectively enriched her comprehensive understanding of the Department’s operations, equipping her to effectively serve and lead.
“Having spent my entire City career in the Street Transportation Department, I’ve seen firsthand the devotion and hard work that goes into making Phoenix’s streets reliable, more efficient, and more accessible for everyone,” Velez said. “I am grateful to now lead this team of passionate and skilled professionals with a strong vision for our future – with community safety as the top priority.”
Velez is a registered Professional Engineer in Arizona, a Certified Public Manager from Arizona State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. She is a member of the American Public Works Association and Institute of Transportation Engineers.
