Innovation is a cornerstone of Block by Block, and with the recent addition of the Fleet & Vehicle Program, we’re exploring how centralizing vehicle purchasing and equipping can benefit both our teams and our customers.  

Derreck Hughes, Vice President of Operations, said the Fleet program originated in Block by Block’s Louisville Lab during the spring of 2024 to explore efficiency and cost-saving measures. He found that leasing through “big-box” companies and sourcing vehicles locally didn’t offer the purchasing power or market controls needed for operations. His solution was to centralize purchasing and branding to allow equipment to arrive at our local operations fully outfitted and ready for field deployment. Hughes said that by standardizing equipment selection, Block by Block can ensure uniform vehicle specifications and layouts across the fleet, as well as improved inventory control, streamlined maintenance, and scripting specific training for the most used items. 

Block by Block vehicles are now purchased directly through a corporate program with Ford. Hughes said in addition to a savings increase, buying factory direct allows us to predict procurement needs and inventory our fleet. Having equipment “on the shelf” — as opposed to ordering once a need arises — can cut lead times down by several weeks. And because the trucks are built in Louisville, “it’s also giving back to the community,” he added.  

Block by Block has also begun working with local vehicle wrap vendors to ensure prioritized scheduling, so vehicles are sent to customers ready to be deployed as quickly as possible. The centralized service approach allows all vehicles to be equipped with safety features such as telematic GPS systems and dashboard cameras, and items to aid operations like truck cages and accessory lighting packages. To manage this new Fleet program, Block by Block named James Wells the Director of Fleet Operations and Innovation. James brings more than 20 years of equipment, logistics, and operations experience to the position. 

“The key for us is creating consistent vehicle packages that improve operational efficiency while taking the burden off of the local management teams,” said Wells.   

Fleet purchasing centralization is also being extended to equipment including pressure washing and information trikes, Tenax street sweepers, GEM EV utility vehicles, leaf vacuums and relay communication devices. This means the company can leverage greater savings and cost effectiveness, as well as better plans for repair cycles and reduce downtime and emergency repairs. 

With the recent enhancements to Block by Block’s reporting system, the SMART System, the company has visibility into the usage and maintenance intervals of our entire fleet to help make data-driven decisions about what equipment works for public spaces.   

“When you have powerful data at your fingertips, we can make better decisions on how to improve our operations through our equipment fleet, how we support our managers and ultimately, how we provide better service to our customers,” Hughes said. 

Block by Block is proud to announce the launch of a new Ambassador program in Gatton Park, Lexington’s newest park, located in the heart of downtown behind Rupp Arena.

A dedicated team of six Ambassadors will be on patrol seven days a week, providing a wide range of services to keep the park clean, safe, and welcoming. Their work will include walking patrols, trash removal, facility maintenance, landscaping, hospitality, event setup and more.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Gatton Park to our portfolio and to apply the knowledge we’ve gained from other parks to ensure a strong start,” said John Koch, Central Division Vice President of Block by Block.

The program is made possible through financial support from by The Blue Grass Community Foundation, the Town Branch Fund and private donations.

The Gatton Park Ambassador Program follows the proven success of Block By Block’s other Parks programs which have transformed spaces once plagued by trash, encampments, and unwanted activity into vibrant destinations for the public.

For example, before the launch of the Ambassador program at Republic Square in downtown Austin, the park served as an unofficial encampment and was known for high levels of negative activity. Today, Republic Square—and nearby Waterloo Park—are clean, safe, and inviting gathering places for the community.

“Prior to us being there, the incidents were a lot higher and the parks were dirty,” said Nick Haines, Regional Vice President of Block by Block. “Our teams make a huge impact when it comes to creating parks that feel safe, cared for, and welcoming.”

Ambassadors not only address daily cleaning and maintenance, but also engage with the unhoused community, help manage curfews, and enhance the overall visitor experience. Their presence fosters an environment that encourages families, residents, and event organizers to return and enjoy the parks.

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in park visitors in the parks we manage as our events have become more appealing,” said Haines. “The district can now book more events because the parks are beautiful and inviting. When prospective event producers tour the parks and see Ambassadors in action, it becomes an effortless sell — it truly sells itself.”

With the launch of the Ambassador program, Gatton Park is poised to follow this same path, becoming a lively destination for community gatherings, events, and everyday enjoyment.

Block by Block has a robust history working in downtowns since their first program launched in Louisville, KY in 1995. More than strictly a clean and safe service provider, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research, development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 850 locations nationwide, including improvement districts, parks, college campuses, transit systems and other public spaces.

For more information about Block by Block, visit https://www.blockbyblock.com/

“We’re excited to welcome Mike Tudor to our leadership team,” said Derreck Hughes, Vice President of Operations. “Mike brings deep experience in operations, team development, and community engagement. With Block by Block’s roots in Louisville, we see the city as a testing ground for innovation — and with Mike’s leadership, we’re confident those innovations will ripple across the regions he oversees.” 

Tudor brings decades of experience in public service and leadership. His career began humbly as a valet and progressed steadily, ultimately leading to his role as Executive Director of the Parking Authority of River City, Inc. (PARC). His journey is a testament to his work ethic, resilience, and lifelong commitment to serving the community. 

“I was raised to serve others and give back,” said Tudor. “Whether through my career, community involvement, or my local church, I’ve always found purpose in service. This role allows me to support the transformation of downtown communities in a meaningful way.” 

Known for his people-first leadership approach, Tudor emphasizes communication, trust-building, and collaboration.  

“Leadership isn’t about giving orders — it’s about bringing people together, aligning on goals, and moving forward as a team,” he added. 

Block by Block has been a trusted partner in downtown management since launching its first program in Louisville, KY in 1995. Today, the company operates in over 180 locations across the U.S., providing clean, safe, hospitality, and outreach services for improvement districts, parks, transit systems, campuses, and other public spaces. With a model grounded in research, best practices, and modern technology, Block by Block continues to evolve in how it serves communities. 

For more information, visit www.blockbyblock.com. 

Eric was previously the President & CEO of the Midtown Community Benefits District in Baltimore, where he led efforts to strengthen relationships across government, private, and nonprofit sections to support vibrant, inclusive communities. His leadership secured millions in funding for operational and capital programs, implemented strategic workforce initiatives, and advanced policies that ensured Midtown’s long-term sustainability. Prior to his role at Midtown, Eric served as the Director of Operations for the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore and was Regional Vice President for Block by Block. 

Souza’s career in public space management began more than 16 years ago with Block by Block, as an Operations Manager. “My desire to work for the company was driven by a deep belief that well-maintained, welcoming, and inclusive environments are essential to thriving communities,” he said. “At their best, public spaces are where economic opportunity meets community identity. When managed with intention and equity, they’re not just gathering places, they’re powerful tools for social and economic progress.” 

Vice President of Operations Derreck Hughes said Block by Block was excited for Souza’s return to the company. “Eric’s deep place management expertise and leadership experience will be instrumental in advancing our customers’ operational goals and providing high-level support for our teams across the Mid-Atlantic. We’re excited to see him blend his past experiences—both with our company and in the broader place management community—into new strategies that will drive the future success of our business,” Hughes said. 

A longtime resident of Baltimore, Souza said he has witnessed “real transformation in Baltimore’s public spaces, one rooted in collaboration, equity, and a growing recognition that vibrant public spaces are critical to a city’s health and prosperity.” He is excited to play a part in Block by Block’s mission of making public spaces more vibrant and welcoming for communities. 

“As we move into the future, I believe we can continue to enhance our impact for clients by creating meaningful change through public space enhancements, economic development, and strategic partnerships. I look forward to being a leader within the organization as we strengthen our platform as the premier service provider in public space management nationwide,” he said. 

Block by Block has a robust history working in downtowns since their first program launched in Louisville, KY in 1995. More than strictly a clean and safe service provider, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research and development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 180 locations nationwide, including improvement districts, parks, college campuses, transit systems and other public spaces.  

For more information about Block by Block, visit https://www.blockbyblock.com/