The City of Courtenay will join communities across North America in celebrating National Public Works Week from May 17–23 with fun and educational activities aimed at showcasing the vital role public works plays in daily life. Activities include school tours, a student art initiative, a children’s colouring contest and a public open house at the City’s Operational Services centre on Saturday, May 23. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” acknowledges that the roots of service run deep in public works. It’s what has propelled public works innovations that have helped our communities evolve into places where people can lead lives of purpose and possibility.
In partnership with School District 71, Grade 6 and 7 students will visit the Operations yard from May 19–22 for hands-on learning linked to civics, career exploration, and environmental awareness.
A highlight this year is the snow plow painting initiative, where local elementary students will decorate plow blades with designs celebrating community pride, environmental stewardship and school spirit. The painted plows will be showcased at the Open House before heading into winter service near the students’ schools.
The City is also hosting a children’s colouring contest, with entries shared through local schools and displayed at the Open House. Prizes will be awarded across multiple age categories. The week wraps up with a community invitation to attend a family-friendly open house, offering a behind-the-scenes look at City operations on Saturday, May 23 from10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 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 an opportunity to recognize the people who are truly rooted in service to our community,” said Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells. “Every day, their dedication powers the essential services we all rely on—maintaining our roads, caring for our parks, and ensuring safe, reliable water. Their work is often behind the scenes, but its impact is felt by everyone who calls Courtenay home.”
In recognition of its commitment to community engagement, the City of Courtenay received awards from the Canadian Public Works Association (CPWA) and Public Works Association of BC (PWABC) for its outstanding submissions highlighting National Public Works Week activities in May 2025.
The City looks forward to welcoming students and residents of all ages to Public Works Week activities and the open house to showcase the essential work of public works professionals.
To learn more about Operational Services, visit courtenay.ca/operations