City Of Courtenay Celebrating Public Works Week This Month

The City of Courtenay will join communities across North America in celebrating National Public Works Week later this month (May 18 to 24) with a series of activities aimed at showcasing the vital role public works plays in daily life.

This year’s theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” recognizes the dedication and community impact of public works professionals who help keep the city running smoothly every day.

Courtenay’s Operational Services Department will mark the occasion with school tours, a student art initiative, and a children’s colouring contest.

There’s also an open house at the City’s Operational Services Centre, taking place Saturday, May 24 from 10am to 2pm, where residents can get a behind-the-scenes look at city operations.

Free public parking for the event is available at 1094 McKenzie Avenue.

Heavy equipment will be on display with live demonstrations.

There will also be guided facility tours, interactive exhibits highlighting essential city services, tree and plant giveaways, and a display of student-painted snow plow blades.

Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells calls Public Works Week a wonderful opportunity to recognize the dedicated individuals who keep Courtenay running smoothly every day.

Wells says from maintaining Courtenay’s roads to beautifying parks and keeping tap water flowing, their work often goes unseen but is essential to residents’ daily lives.

“Public Works Week is the perfect time to give a high five to the amazing folks who keep Courtenay bustling and buzzing every single day,” he said.
In collaboration with School District 71, students in grades 6 and 7 will tour the Operations yard between May 20 and 23, taking part in hands-on learning experiences tied to curriculum themes like civics, career planning, and environmental awareness.

A highlight of this year’s student engagement is the Snow Plow Painting Initiative, where local elementary students decorate snow plow blades with themes that reflect community pride, environmental stewardship, and school spirit.

These painted plows will be featured at the Open House—and later put into active winter service near the students' own schools.

Adding to the festivities, City staff will take part in the inaugural Operations Cup, a friendly skills competition that celebrates teamwork and operator expertise with lighthearted challenges using city equipment.

Learn more by visiting National Public Works Week.