FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Springfield’s Director of Planning and Development Ralph Rognstad announces he will retire Jan. 23, 2015. Rognstad has worked for the City 27 years. As director, he is responsible for managing the City of Springfield's development review activities. Rognstad became the department director in September 2003 after serving as assistant director since 1996 and principal planner three years prior. Before coming to Springfield, Rognstad worked for the City of Rock Hill, South Carolina, as senior planner. He has also worked as a planner in Virginia and North Dakota. “Ralph’s fingerprints can be found all over this city, as he has worked tirelessly on a wide range of projects that have had a significant impact on the lives of our citizens,” said City Manager Greg Burris. Throughout his distinguished career, Rognstad has been played an integral part in efforts such as redevelopment planning of the College Street corridor and development of the Route 66 Roadside Park, establishment of The Link, and creation of the City’s first Capital Improvements Program. Most recently he has worked with residents of the Woodland Heights Neighborhood to create the Moon City Creative District.“I appreciate all of the great opportunities and experiences I have had working for City the past 27 years. I have been able to work with some great people in the Planning and Development Department, as well as the rest of the City departments and the community. Together, I believe we have been able to make Springfield a better place,” Rognstad said. Rognstad will be recognized Jan. 26 at the regular City Council meeting. # # # For more information, contact: Cora Scott, Director of Public Information & Civic Engagement, 417-864-1009 (office) | 417-380-3352 (cell), [email protected]Download Rognstad portrait.