Meet Chris Bonenberger: Chester County Highway Maintenance Manager

​We are so grateful for the people who make careers for themselves at PennDOT. These individuals repeatedly exemplify the care and concern needed to serve the state of Pennsylvania - and continually strive to make PennDOT a great place to work. 

Meet Chris Bonenberger. Chris first joined PennDOT back in 2005, and he was recently promoted to Chester County Highway Maintenance Manager. 

Bonenberger said: “I started my career with PennDOT 16 years ago, right out of high school, as a maintenance operator. From plowing snow in Lansdale and working on the highway maintenance and construction crews, I worked hard. I continued to move into several new roadway positions over the years, including county assistant maintenance manager and highway maintenance manager. Finally, I felt I was respected and had the resources to continue my development within PennDOT. So many things have changed as we've grown, but quality and teamwork are still incredibly important. I take great pride in my work, no matter what the project is. We never lack for people working together to get it done." 

In this position, Bonenberger leads 131 employees, manages a budget of $34 million, and is responsible for all the maintenance activities on 1,130 miles of state highways in Chester County.  

“Chris is a valued member of PennDOT's maintenance organization and brings a wealth of knowledge to this position," PennDOT Assistant District Executive for Maintenance John Krafczyk said. “His highway maintenance experience combined with his managerial background provides a foundation for him to direct highway maintenance operations in Chester County successfully."  

The variety of work related to operations and the opportunity to improve employee safety exemplify why Chris enjoys being a member of the PennDOT team. He said that over the past few years, he has seen a great deal of positive change in the organization and, as a result, is thrilled to be part of our ongoing work. Chris also greatly values the productive working relationships and friendships he has developed with colleagues, legislative and municipal stakeholders, and the public. 

Chris's favorite challenges to tackle are those that have a profound impact and are meaningful to people. There is no task too small associated with upholding safety standards and improving roadways.  

When Chris isn't out in the field or office, he enjoys time with his wife and three children, with baby number four on the way in November.