City of Courtenay Celebrates Public Works Week with Open House and School Tours

The City of Courtenay will join communities across North America in celebrating National Public Works Week (May 18 – 24, 2025) with a series of fun and educational 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 our city running smoothly every day.

Courtenay’s Operational Services Department will mark the occasion with school tours, a student art initiative, a children’s colouring contest, and a public Open House at the City’s Operational Services Centre.

Public Open House – Saturday, May 24

From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the community is invited to get a behind-the-scenes look at city operations during a family-friendly open house. Free public parking for the event is available at 1094 McKenzie Avenue. Visitors can enjoy:

• Heavy equipment displays and live demonstrations
• Interactive exhibits highlighting essential city services
• Guided facility tours
• Tree and plant giveaways
• Free hot dogs
• A display of student-painted snow plow blades
• Children’s colouring contest entries and prize announcements

“Public Works Week is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the dedicated individuals who keep Courtenay running smoothly every day,” said Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells. “From maintaining our roads to beautifying our parks and keeping our tap water flowing, their work often goes unseen but is essential to our 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!”

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 will decorate snow plow blades with themes that reflect community pride, environmental stewardship, and school spirit. These uniquely painted plows will be featured at the Open House—and later put into active winter service near the students' own schools.

The City is also hosting a children’s colouring contest, with entries distributed through local schools and displayed at the Open House. Prizes will be awarded in multiple age categories.

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.

National Public Works Week is an opportunity to learn more about the people and services that support Courtenay’s infrastructure every day. The City looks forward to welcoming residents of all ages to the Open House and recognizing the essential work of public works professionals.

To learn more about Operational Services, visit www.courtenay.ca/operations.