Town of Vail promotes Tom Kassmel to public works and transportation director

The town of Vail has promoted Tom Kassmel to the role of director of Public Works and Transportation. In his new role, he will oversee nine divisions and a team of 153 full-time employees — nearly half of the town’s workforce. Public Works and Transportation represent 50% of the town’s annual operating budget, totaling $34.5 million in 2025.  

Kassmel joined the organization as a project engineer 25 years ago and has served as town engineer since 2004. Key projects completed under his direction include the Lionshead Welcome Center and the Sandstone Underpass. He has served as acting director of Public Works and Transportation since July, following the retirement of Greg Hall. 

“This job requires a lot of technical expertise,” said Town Manager Russell Forrest. “But, it also requires someone to be a visionary, who sees the possibilities. Tom is a strategic and forward-thinking leader who is capable of managing the day-to-day operations of public infrastructure and collaborating with community partners to plan and shape the future of our community.” 

Kassmel holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in civil engineering. He began his 29-year career in Elmsford, New York, as a design engineer working on transportation-related projects. He moved to Eagle County in 1999 and says he fell in love with the valley.