LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) are pleased to announce the appointment of John B. Norris III as the new Director of the Department of Public Works & Transportation (DPW&T). Mr. Norris brings a distinguished blend of civil engineering expertise, executive leadership, and public-sector legal experience that will strengthen the County’s infrastructure planning, project execution, and daily operational services.
Mr. Norris began his career as a Project Engineer with NG&O Engineering, Inc., where he specialized in civil site design and permitting for industrial, commercial, and residential development. His technical experience spans road, bridge, and culvert design; stormwater management systems; and sediment and erosion control planning. His background also includes the preparation and review of hundreds of Environmental Site Assessments and the management of Conditional Use and Variance applications across multiple jurisdictions.
Building on a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Technology, Mr. Norris earned a Juris Doctorate and advanced his career by integrating engineering and environmental law. He served as a legal intern with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and later represented clients on complex environmental legal matters.
Since 2011, Mr. Norris has served as the County Attorney for Calvert County, and he previously served as the County Attorney for St. Mary’s County. He is a member of the Maryland State Bar, the Calvert County Bar Association, and the St. Mary’s County Bar Association.
“We are very pleased to welcome John Norris back to St. Mary’s County Government,” said Commissioner President Randy Guy. “His extensive background in engineering and law, combined with his years of public service, make him uniquely qualified to lead DPW&T.”
Mr. Norris shared his appreciation and enthusiasm:
“I am deeply grateful for the 14 years I spent serving the citizens of Calvert County as County Attorney. Now, I am honored to accept the position of Director of Public Works & Transportation in St. Mary's County. This is a wonderful opportunity to leverage my background in both civil engineering and public law to make a direct, positive impact. I am excited to rejoin the St. Mary's County Government and get to work.”
Mr. Norris will assume the role of DPW&T Director effective December 19, 2025.
The Department of Public Works & Transportation oversees county infrastructure, transportation, roadway operations, construction, development review, building services, solid waste and recycling programs, and more. With Mr. Norris’ technical expertise and proven leadership, St. Mary’s County Government looks forward to continued progress in delivering reliable, high-quality public services.
For more information, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.
