Peoria Standard

The Department of Public Works is gearing up to host an open house event as part of the National Public Works Week celebrations. The event is set to take place on Thursday, May 16, at the Public Works Facility located at 3505 N Dries Lane.

According to the Public Works Department, the open house is designed to be an all-ages, family-friendly event aimed at providing attendees with insight into the department's operations. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in interactive demonstrations, view displays, and participate in games. Additionally, they can explore the inner workings of plow trucks and street sweepers while also enjoying fun and educational exhibits presented by various community partners.

In a statement, the Public Works Department shared, "The Public Works Open House is an all-ages, family event. Attendees will learn about the department’s operations through interactive demonstrations, displays, and games. Visitors can also check out the inner workings of plow trucks and street sweepers. Multiple community partners will also be present with fun, educational exhibits."

To add to the festive atmosphere, the event will feature balloon and face painting artists from the Unique Twist & Twisting Crew and Expressions Body Art & Design. Additionally, a bounce house and complimentary food and drinks will be provided, as mentioned by the Public Works Department.

The National Public Works Week, which will be observed from May 19 to May 25, holds great significance as highlighted by the American Public Works Association. The association emphasized the importance of this week in educating the public on the essential role of public works in daily life, stating, "Since 1960, the American Public Works Association has sponsored National Public Works Week. Across North America, more than 30,000 members in the U.S. and Canada use this week to energize and educate the public on the importance of public works to their daily lives: planning, building, managing, and operating at the heart of their local communities to improve everyday quality of life."