Penfield honors DPW employee Julie Grace for her dedication to keeping roads safe, clean, and the community moving throughout every season

Penfield, New York – When residents drive along Penfield’s roads, many never stop to think about the people working behind the scenes to keep streets safe, clean, and accessible throughout the year. One of those employees is Julie Grace, whose dedication and steady work ethic have earned her recognition in the Town of Penfield’s latest Staff Spotlight.

Grace, a member of the Department of Public Works, has built an impressive record since joining the department as a laborer in September 2023. In less than three years, her commitment to learning new skills and taking on additional responsibilities has resulted in two promotions. She advanced to the position of Skilled Laborer in October 2024 before moving into her current role as a Motor Equipment Operator in November 2025.

Town officials say her rapid progression reflects both her reliability and her willingness to step into whatever role is needed to support the department’s daily operations.

“Julie is always prepared to jump in whenever needed,” said Director of Public Works Bob Mohr. “Whether it’s helping her coworkers, operating equipment, or taking on a new challenge, she’s always ready to lend a hand and help get the job done.”

Grace’s work changes with the seasons, making her an important part of the department’s year-round operations. During the winter, she helps ensure that roads remain safe during snowstorms by operating snowplows on key routes throughout the town. Her assigned areas include Five Mile Line Road, stretching from south of Pennicott Circle to the Perinton town line, as well as Whalen Road between Atlantic Avenue and Baird Road. She also clears neighborhood streets branching off Five Mile Line Road, helping residents travel safely during harsh winter weather.

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As temperatures rise and snow gives way to warmer conditions, Grace shifts her focus to maintaining the town’s roadways in other ways. Throughout the summer months, she operates Penfield’s street sweeper, removing dirt, debris, and other materials that accumulate on local roads. The work helps improve roadway appearance while also supporting safer driving conditions.

Her responsibilities continue into the fall season, when she conducts pond inspections as part of the town’s regular maintenance program. These inspections help monitor stormwater systems and ensure that drainage areas remain in good condition before winter arrives again.

In addition to her seasonal assignments, Grace also takes on an important leadership role during larger Department of Public Works projects. She serves as the lead for traffic control, helping coordinate safe work zones for both construction crews and passing motorists. Careful traffic management is essential during infrastructure projects, allowing maintenance work to proceed efficiently while minimizing risks for workers and the public.

Town leaders say Grace’s versatility has made her a valuable member of the department. Whether she is behind the wheel of heavy equipment, assisting fellow employees, or helping manage busy work sites, she consistently approaches each task with a strong sense of responsibility.

Town Supervisor Kevin Berry praised both her work ethic and her commitment to serving the community.

“Julie brings a positive attitude and a commitment to serving our residents every day,” said Town Supervisor Kevin Berry. “Her dedication makes a difference, and the Town of Penfield is lucky to have her.”

The Town of Penfield’s Staff Spotlight program highlights employees whose efforts often take place outside the public eye but have a meaningful impact on daily life. For Department of Public Works employees, that work can range from snow removal and roadway maintenance to equipment operation and infrastructure inspections, with responsibilities changing throughout the year based on the community’s needs.

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Grace’s career path within the department illustrates how dedication and a willingness to embrace new challenges can lead to greater responsibility in a relatively short period. From starting as a laborer in 2023 to becoming a Motor Equipment Operator just over two years later, she has steadily expanded her role while contributing to essential public services.

For Penfield residents, much of that work may go unnoticed as they travel the town’s roads each day. But officials say employees like Julie Grace play a vital role in keeping the community running smoothly, ensuring roads remain safe, clean, and well maintained regardless of the season.