News Release

Bryan D. McIlwee Named Assistant Community Development Director for the Town of Hilton Head Island

December 2, 2022

The Town of Hilton Head Island is pleased to announce that Bryan D. McIlwee, a professional engineer with extensive experience, has joined the Town as an Assistant Community Development Director. In his role, Bryan will have oversight of the Town’s capital improvement program, facilities, engineering, and stormwater divisions.

"We are excited and fortunate to have Bryan join our Community Development team as we look at implementing several significant projects in the coming months. As an accomplished engineer, he brings the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical areas. His knowledge, experience and leadership will be key to the success of our expansive capital improvement program and initiatives of other divisions," said Town Manager Marc Orlando.

Bryan's 14 years of public sector experience includes developing and implementing strategic initiatives for capital improvement programs pertaining to infrastructure, stormwater, and public works management, liaising with regulatory and government agencies, team supervision and project management.

Bryan previously served as the Town's Assistant Town Engineer and Stormwater Manager for eight years from 2008 through 2016 and brings firsthand, historical knowledge of Town projects. During this time, he managed the Town's storm water program and provided engineering review of development projects to ensure compliance with the Town's stormwater regulations. He supervised the planning, engineering design, and construction of capital improvement projects, including numerous road and pathway projects for the island. Notably, he was involved in the design of the Town's Rowing and Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park.

After working for the Town of Hilton Head Island, Bryan joined the Town of Bluffton as its Director of Engineering. For five years, he managed Bluffton's engineering department, which consisted of its capital improvement program, public works, and watershed management divisions. Bryan led high-level project execution of parks, docks, streetscapes and water and sewer installation. Some well-known projects he oversaw include the Martin Family and Wright Family parks and the May River Road Streetscape, all of which celebrate Bluffton's community spirit and small-town charm. He was also involved with the adoption of the Southern Lowcountry Stormwater Design Manual, a guide of best practices that developers, private parties, and governmental agencies can use to prepare stormwater management plans. Most recently, Bryan served as City Engineer for the City of Lafayette, Colorado. While there, he was the city's lead engineer on all development review and permitting activities and was leading the public works capital improvements program with an emphasis on stormwater and multi-modal transportation efforts.

"I am proud to be returning to the Town of Hilton Head Island and look forward to working with the dynamic team of engineers, planners, and others to implement the Town’s strategic action plan. The opportunity to contribute to enhancing the quality of life for our residents in such a meaningful way is the reason for my return. I have watched the Town evolve, both from personal and professional standpoints. I am excited to help it continue its pursuit of excellence for our community," McIlwee said.

Originally from Virginia, Bryan moved to Hilton Head Island in 2008. He received a bachelor's degree in civil and environmental engineering from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. He is a registered Professional Engineer and holds memberships with the American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Public Works Association. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys playing golf, hiking, and spending time with his family and friends.

Bryan can be reached at BryanM@hiltonheadislandsc.gov.