Citizen Spotlight: Chad Birdsong

Chad Birdsong is a man with a plan, actually lots of plans! (photo S Jason Cole).

Chad Birdsong has been working for the City of Excelsior Springs for 30 years and he said he can’t imagine working anywhere else. Born and raised in Excelsior Springs, Chad has been a fixture in the community for nearly half a century.

Chad’s journey with the City of Excelsior Springs began in 1990 when he started working with the Parks and Rec department during the summers. After graduating from CMSU, he started working full time as a recreation coordinator in 1993. In 1997, he made the switch to public works as a construction inspector and then became construction superintendent in 1998. From there, Chad played a pivotal role in several major construction projects, including the redesign of Broadway, Spring Street, South Street, Marietta, and Thompson.

In 2008, Chad was appointed as the Public Works Director, overseeing street construction, transportation, and utility services. He has been a steady presence in this position for the past 15 years, leading his team with integrity and dedication.

Chad worked his way up the ladder to where he is today. In this photo, he’s operating a curb & gutter slip-form machine during a major street and sidewalk renovation in 2003 (submitted photo).

Chad has always remained committed to his hometown. He and his wife recently built a home on family farmland just outside of Knoxville, Missouri. He said his love for his community runs deep, and he takes great pride in knowing his work helps make Excelsior Springs a better place to live.

As Chad reflected on his 30 years of service, he credited his success to the support of his colleagues and the community he serves. “It’s been a privilege to work for the City of Excelsior Springs for the past 30 years,” he says. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to the growth and development of this community. It’s been an honor to work alongside so many talented and dedicated individuals, and I look forward to continuing to serve this community for many more years to come.”

Chad said some of his biggest accomplishments while serving as Public Works Director include his work on revitalizing the downtown area of his city. One of the largest projects was the streetscape project which transformed the area from a “rough and run-down place” to a thriving hub of activity with new businesses and cleaner properties. The project has also helped to attract investment and attention from outside the community.

Chad, left, has many interesting stories about the history of Excelsior Springs. During a sidewalk renovation, a large coal chamber was found in front of what is now Smith’s Barber Shop (submitted photo).

Chad has been involved in numerous other projects, including building new playground equipment in parks, numerous street improvement projects as well as a new wastewater treatment plant. All of which have helped to improve the community and make it a better place to live. Chad is really looking forward to working to implement the grants that the town has recently received, particularly the RAISE grant, several sewer grants, and flood mitigation studies.

Excelsior Springs is lucky to have someone as dedicated as Chad working to create lasting improvements for the community. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to have a positive impact on Excelsior Springs for years to come.