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COMMUNICATION PACKET MEMORANDUM

No decisions will be made based on the information provided herein. The memorandum is for informational purposes only.

April 17, 2026
Friday

__________________________

2026 National Public Works Week

MEMORANDUM

City of Springfield, Oregon

Date:

04/17/2026

COMMUNICATION
PACKET
MEMORANDUM

To:

Nancy Newton, City Manager

From:

Michael McGillivray

Subject:

2026 National Public Works Week

INFORMATION SHARE:

The Development and Public Works Department (DPW) is celebrating and participating in the American Public Works Association's 2026 National Public Works Week, May 17–23.

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 driven public works innovations that have helped our communities become places where people can lead lives of purpose and possibility. Some work, like building roads and bridges, is highly visible, while other public works contributions, like maintaining water and sewer systems, are sometimes hidden from view. Together, these efforts form the foundation of thriving communities, reminding us that every project, seen or unseen, powers the connection between service and the people it supports.

National Public Works Week is a time to celebrate the dedication of our Development and Public Works staff and raise awareness about the essential services they provide. It highlights the wide range of responsibilities the department carries out to improve the quality of life and support a thriving, productive Springfield community.

DPW communications staff are gearing up for another big turnout at this year's Public Works Week Carnival and Equipment Rodeo, happening Wednesday, May 20, and Thursday, May 21. More than 500 students from nine Springfield schools are expected to take part. The event gives students a hands-on look at how DPW supports the community. Inside City Hall, classes will rotate through 10 interactive booths with games and activities set up like a carnival, each with a public works theme. Outside, in the library parking lot, students will get an up-close view of the equipment our operations technicians use every day to keep the city running. City staff, the Mayor, and Councilors are welcome to stop by and join in at any time between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Along with the carnival and equipment rodeo, social media posts highlighting the work of our Development and Public Works staff will be shared. The Council and City staff are invited to participate in the online celebration of National Public Works Week by sharing, commenting, or "liking" these social media posts. In addition, Mayor Sean VanGordon has been invited to celebrate with the proclamation of National Public Works Week at the April 20 City Council Regular meeting.

For more information about Springfield's national public works week celebration, please contact Mike Mcgillivray, Communications Coordinator, at mmcgillivray@springfield-or.gov or 541-726-3615.