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A podcast by APWA San Diego & Imperial Counties featuring conversations with the people shaping public works across our region.
ABOUT INSIDE INFRASTUCTURE
Inside Infrastructure brings you behind the scenes of the projects, people and policies shaping public works across San Diego and Imperial Counties. Hosted by James Nagelvoort and Benjamin Valdez, the series highlights major infrastructure initiatives, community investments and the teams working every day to keep our region safe, resilient and moving forward. Whether you work in public works, follow regional policy or simply want to understand how your city operates, Inside Infrastructure offers meaningful conversations and insights from the people delivering essential services.
Episode 3 • Roots of Renewal: The Balboa Park Botanical Building Reimagined
July 1, 2026
We’re excited to launch Episode 3 of APWA San Diego-Imperial Counties Inside Infrastructure podcast, filmed on location at the Historical Botanical Building in the heart of San Diego’s crown jewel — Balboa Park.
Originally built in 1915 for the Panama–California Exposition, this historic structure has undergone a breathtaking transformation — blending old-world charm with innovative sustainability, all under the leadership of the City of San Diego and a team of dedicated project partners. This project wasn’t just a renovation — it was a resurrection of San Diego’s history. It’s now a space that will serve and inspire for generations to come. Today, we’ll talk with the city engineers, who helped bring this living landmark back to life — all while navigating storms, protecting rare trees, and welcoming a new generation of visitors into what’s been called a “Garden of Eden.” This historical project was an APWA San Diego-Imperial County Chapter 2025 Project of the Year Historic Preservation Award Winner. Our Chapter is thrilled to announce that Balboa Park Botanical Building Transformation was selected as the American Public Works Association’s Public Works Projects of the Year, Historical Restoration/Preservation - $5 million -$25 Million for 2026. So, breathe in, listen close, and join us on this behind-the-scenes journey through restoration, resilience, and the roots of renewal.
Primary Agency – City of San Diego
Primary Contractor – EC Constructors
Primary Consultant – Michael Baker International
Project Architect – Platt/Whitelaw Architects
Episode 2 • Marnell Gibson, P.E.
February 19, 2026
In this episode of Inside Infrastructure, Marnell Gibson, P.E., joins our hosts James Nagelvoort, P.E., and Ben Valdez to unpack a question everyone asks but few understand: why do bridges cost so much and why do they take so long to build? Marnell reflects on her path to becoming a professional engineer and the major bridge projects she’s helped lead. She also shares an insider’s perspective on the hidden challenges, unexpected rewards, and lasting appeal of public works and project management.
Episode 1 • Mayor Todd Gloria
December 15, 2025
City of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria joins hosts James Nagelvoort and Benjamin Valdez to discuss the future of the region’s roads, parks, water reliability, climate resilience and the public works workforce that keeps our communities moving. This premiere episode offers a candid look at the priorities shaping San Diego’s infrastructure today and what’s ahead.
MEET THE HOSTS
James Nagelvoort, PE, MBA
Senior Vice President and Senior Technical Director, WSP
James Nagelvoort, PE, MBA brings more than 30 years of experience leading major public works and capital improvement programs across San Diego. As a former City Engineer and department director, he oversaw some of the region’s most complex infrastructure initiatives in transportation, water, wastewater, stormwater and public facilities. James is known for his technical expertise, strategic leadership and his ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams on high-profile regional projects. He brings this perspective to every conversation on Inside Infrastructure.
Benjamin Valdez
Director of Business Development and Marketing at CPM Partners
Benjamin “Ben” Valdez is a public-works professional with experience supporting public agencies on transportation, water, rail and other major infrastructure projects. A past Chair of the APWA Young Professionals Committee, he is known for strengthening engagement, mentorship and industry collaboration. Ben brings a community-focused perspective to Inside Infrastructure and a passion for supporting the next generation of public-works leaders.
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New episodes of Inside Infrastructure are released on our YouTube channel. Subscribe to stay updated on future conversations, behind-the-scenes insights and featured guests.
YouTube Channel: APWA Inside Infrastructure - YouTube
Share an Idea for a Future Episode
Inside Infrastructure highlights the projects and people shaping our region, and we welcome your input. If you have a topic, question or guest suggestion, we’d love to hear from you.