JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Jon Lane will replace Johnson City Water and Sewer Services (WSS) Director Tom Witherspoon after his retirement in November, the city announced Tuesday.

“I’m honored to be entrusted with leading the department,” Lane said in a news release. “Tom leaves behind a remarkable legacy with 44 years of service to this community. I look forward to building on the achievements of the past four decades as we move into the next chapter.”

Lane has worked as a civil engineer and assistant director with the department for nearly 11 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree from North Carolina State University.

“As the department’s second-in-command, Lane supports nearly 190 full-time employees while overseeing an annual budget of $46 million,” the city said in the release. “His responsibilities include management of the WSS Capital Improvements Plan, including project oversight for planning, design, and construction of rate- and debt-funded projects. He is actively involved in the annual enterprise fund budget process, helping guide projected revenue and expenses development.”

Lane has reportedly led various projects, including the following:

• New Water and Sewer Services Complex on Eddie Williams Road – $15 million
• Lower Brush Creek Interceptor Replacement with 21,000 ft. of 42” pipe – $25 million
• Replacement and upgrading of water and sewer lines to the West Walnut Street Corridor Redevelopment Plan – $7 million
• Brush Creek Wastewater Treatment Aeration system improvements – $5.5 million
• Sinking Creek Pump Station upgrade – $10 million

“Jon has exceptional leadership capabilities and an impressive technical understanding of the Water and Sewer Services system,” Johnson City City Manager Cathy Ball said in the release. “I trust that he will maintain departmental operations that meet the highest standards for excellence and customer service.”