Messaye Fessha, P.E. PMP, LEED AP

Experience

• 

  The Port Authority of NY & NJ - GWB and SIB

  Jun 1998 - now

  In this role, I manage daily contractor activities and oversee project schedules, budgets, and contract scope for Capital, Operating, and Security projects. I lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers, consultants, inspectors, and administrative staff, ensuring effective coordination. I align project plans, specifications, shop drawings, and construction methods with facility operations to prioritize safety. I evaluate and approve payments, generate monthly progress and cost reports, and assess additional work requirements, accrued liabilities, and time and material classifications. I prepare authorization requests and handle all project-related correspondence to maintain clear communication. As CMD’s representative for priority repairs at TB&T facilities, I collaborate with internal departments to streamline processes and expedite timelines. I also provide senior management with high-level monthly updates, ensuring they are informed of key developments and metrics.Prominent Accomplishments:* Addressed and resolved construction issues and claims by interpreting contract terms, leading to timely resolutions or appropriate escalations, minimizing delays, and maintaining project continuity.* Achieved key project milestones and supported long-term operational goals by delivering high-quality projects within budget and timeline. Show less During this tenure, I oversaw all functional areas of multiple projects, ensuring strict adherence to plans, specifications, and contractual requirements. I tracked project progress diligently to ensure on-time delivery while staying within budget constraints. I devised construction methods and ensured full compliance with contract terms and conditions. I managed all aspects of functional projects, including tracking, reporting, and forecasting deliverables. I also conducted regular site assessments to evaluate work quality and ensure compliance with engineering standards. Working closely with project teams, I resolved challenges and implemented effective solutions to maintain project timelines. I partnered with contractors, consultants, and stakeholders to streamline communication and ensure project alignment.Major Achievements:* Directed the $87M rehabilitation of the main span upper-level structural steel and managed suspender rope replacement and main cable inspection at the George Washington Bridge.* Spearheaded the $30M rehabilitation of the New Jersey abutment at the Bayonne Bridge, including the addition of 60 longitudinal girders to increase load capacity and meet safety standards.* Executed urgent structural repairs at the Bayonne Bridge, minimizing disruption and addressing safety concerns.* Upgraded CCTV camera systems at Staten Island Bridges to improve security and monitoring capabilities.* Monitored rehabilitation of the Lemoine Avenue overpass, enhancing traffic flow and structural resilience. Show less

  • Senior Resident Engineer - Capital, Operating, and Security Projects

    Nov 2015 - now

  • Senior Structural Engineer / Assistant Resident Engineer

    Jun 1998 - Nov 2015