Lawrence has a new stormwater engineer who will work on ways to prevent flooding in the community.

Matt Bond, an engineer who formerly designed bridges for the Kansas Department of Transportation, recently took over the position that had been vacant since Chad Voigt resigned in December.

Bond, who was with KDOT for 15 years, said he jumped at the chance to work in his hometown.

“It was a good opportunity to change pace, and I don’t have to commute anymore,” Bond said.

Bond is a Lawrence native and received his engineering degrees from Kansas University.

In his position with the city, he will review new developments to ensure they meet the city’s stormwater regulations, oversee programs to control stormwater pollution and design new projects to address existing flooding problems.

Bond also will be responsible for helping craft recommendations on how the city can implement a massive stormwater drainage plan for North Lawrence.