Meet Joe Poplawski

Here's why Joe Poplawski should be your pick for Bethlehem City Council.

Why I'm Qualified to Serve

With over two decades of hands-on experience in civil engineering and building inspections, I’m uniquely prepared to make informed decisions about Bethlehem’s infrastructure, zoning, and development.

Accomplishments

1999 - Present

Role: Owner

Advantage Inspection Service, LLC

With over 20 years of experience as a trusted home and building inspector, Joe Poplawski has personally inspected more than 7,000 properties across Eastern Pennsylvania—protecting families, businesses, and neighborhoods with a sharp eye for safety and quality. As the owner of Advantage Inspection Service, Joe brings unmatched technical expertise to the issues that matter most: roads, zoning, buildings, and development.

April 2022 - September 2023

Role:

Inspections, Assist Construction Manager

Project type:

Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission

As part of a $300 million Pennsylvania Turnpike expansion, Joe assisted in managing one of the state’s largest transportation infrastructure projects—widening a 7-mile stretch, rebuilding four bridges, and expanding travel lanes.

His role included inspections, coordination, and quality control, giving him firsthand experience with transportation planning and large-scale public works.

This project sharpened Joe’s ability to manage complex infrastructure needs—expertise he’s ready to bring to City Council in service of Bethlehem.

2023 - Present

Role:

Construction Manager

Employer:

QES Pavements, Inc.

As Construction Manager with QES Pavements, Inc., Joe led key projects for the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. His work included bridge and culvert restoration at the National Historical Canal Park, and managing wetland mitigation, paving, and new facility construction at Marsh Creek State Park—building hands-on experience in infrastructure and public resource management.

January 2005 to December 2007

Role:

Project Manager & Municipal Engineer

Employer:

KEI, Inc

As project manager and municipal engineer for KEI, Inc., Joe oversaw residential and commercial infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with engineering standards and local regulations. His work included inspections, stakeholder coordination, and resource planning—building expertise in urban planning and community development.

2003 - 2005

Role:

Construction Manager

Location:

ABE International Airport
Hanover Township, PA

As construction manager for the Lehigh Valley Airport’s sound insulation program, Joe led a complex, multi-year project focused on improving quality of life through noise mitigation. The role required close coordination with stakeholders, strict regulatory compliance, and efficient resource management—experience that prepared him to address public infrastructure, policy, and problem-solving as a city council member.

In the Community

2010 - 2013

Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 359

Joe volunteered as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 359, where they played a key role in mentoring young Scouts and supporting the Scouting program. Dedicated to character development and outdoor education, Joe assisted with troop meetings, organized camping trips, and led merit badge instruction. Through their guidance, Scouts built leadership skills and confidence while striving to live by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law.

2002 - Present

Volunteer with Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley

Joe volunteered since 2002 with the Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley, where he conducted educational sessions for first-time home buyers on the importance and benefits of home inspections. Joe's informative presentations helped participants understand key aspects of the inspection process, identify potential issues in properties, and make empowered, informed decisions during the home-buying journey.