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PUBLIC WORKS WEEK

The “Then and Now” slideshow featured displaying the operation of the system. Department celebrated Public Works Week
various photos of projects, buildings, An area also was set up using a metal with a field day focused on teamwork,
roadways, etc. from years gone by to detector, locating pins as the surveyors do. employee appreciation, and industry
present day, reminding folks of Public Finally, this year’s photo booth featured partnerships.
Works and Utilities – “We’re Always There a school bus (where a long line formed Employees participated in a variety of
– Then and Now.” to enter the bus, either to find a seat or competitions, including a Granny Toss,
Also on hand were the wooden mini pretend to drive.) Cornhole, Egg Race, Water Relay, Nuts
excavator; Dave the Engineer; various Informational/educational packets were and Bolt Challenge, Pipe Transfer, Water
pumps used in the city’s lift stations; floor available offering information related Balloon Toss, and Stack the Blocks. The
puzzles, and the “No Wipes in the Pipes” to the services we provide; however, games encouraged collaboration and
display. Each year we expand exhibits observing our employees as they explain camaraderie, though it didn’t take long for
from previous years. We keep the old their role in the daily operations is the competition to become very real.
exhibits and add new ones. priceless. Even though women make up a small
Other highlights at this year’s event We’re already in the planning stages for percentage of the department, one team
included both construction hard hats and next year’s event, because – rain or shine – stood out. “Ladies First,” composed of
safety vests for each child attending; an we’re always there. the women of Public Service, delivered
additional interactive water display using City of Knoxville an impressive showing—crushing the
remote control trucks, and a working competition and taking first place along
electrical exhibit with an interactive board The City of Knoxville Public Service with plenty of bragging rights.
8 TPW July/August 2026