City Observes National Public Works Week, May 19-25

The City of Valdosta will observe National Public Works Week, on May 19-25, with a variety of activities that will highlight the services provided by the staff of the city’s Public Works Department.

The national observance, sponsored by the American Public Works Association (APWA), was instituted in 1960. This year’s theme is “It Starts Here”. This theme represents the many facets of modern civilization that grow out of the efforts put forth by the public works professionals across North America. What starts here? Infrastructure starts with public works... Growth and innovation starts with public works... Mobility starts with public works... Security starts with public works... Healthy communities start with public works... The bottom line is that citizens' quality of life starts with public works.

“During Public Works Week, our goal is to increase public awareness of the important role our employees play, educate citizens on public works professionals, and show our appreciation of the dedication and commitment that our employees display daily,” said Public Works Director Richard Hardy.

The Valdosta Public Works Department is responsible for the daily operation of residential and commercial sanitation services, right-of-way street maintenance, facilities maintenance, repair of city vehicles and equipment, and street sweeping in residential areas as well as designated state routes. Department staff also collects and properly disposes of recycling, bulk items and yard trash for city customers. For the protection of citizens, the Public Works Department also provides a mosquito spraying and larvacide program. In addition, the Mathis Auditorium and Sunset Hill Cemetery are owned and managed by the Public Works Department.

Citizens are invited to participate in a variety of events that have been planned for National Public Works Week:

Monday, May 20 | Proclamation

Mayor John Gayle will kick off the National Public Works Week observance at 1 p.m. by presenting a proclamation to the Public Works staff, at 1017 Myrtle Street.

Tuesday, May 21 | “Love Where You Live” Anti-Litter Educational Campaign

Public Works staff will host a kickoff event for the anti-litter educational campaign “Love Where You Live”. The event will be held at S.L. Mason Elementary School at 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday, May 22 | Public Works Employee Appreciation Luncheon

City of Valdosta Public Works Department employees will be treated to an Employee Appreciation Luncheon, at Mathis Auditorium, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (This event is for Public Works employees and invited guests only.)

To request additional information about National Public Works Week in Valdosta, contact the Public Works Department at 229-259-3597.