The Arizona chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) has awarded Maricopa County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOT) Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Branch Manager Faisal Saleem with its Citation for Exemplary Service to Public Works. The award, part of the chapter's 2016 APWA Professional Awards, recognizes a public service leader who has made a positive impact on public works programs, services, or policies. For the last 16 years, Saleem has served as MCDOT's ITS Branch Manager where he has advocated for the advancement of traffic operations systems by implementing the latest technology including connected vehicle innovations. He has also been influential in the development of numerous regional programs to improve traffic operations. These programs include the AZTech Regional Information System, the Bell Road Adaptive Traffic Signal Control Technology Deployment Design, the Loop 101 Integrated Corridor Management Plan, the MCDOT SMARTDrive Program and the Anthem Connected Vehicle Test Bed. "What sets Faisal apart is his ability to build relationships and collaborate," said MCDOT Director Jennifer Toth. "It’s hard to find anyone who doesn't appreciate him or want to work with him. And even though he could accomplish great things on his own, Faisal understands building relationships and establishing partnerships among jurisdictions will lead to sustainable improvements that will continue to serve Maricopa County for years to come." This is the first year the Arizona chapter of the APWA has awarded the Citation for Exemplary Service to Public Works, which is modeled after the national award by the same name.