Print
Share page with AddThis

Celebrating Public Works and Utilities During National Public Works Week

Recognizing the People, Purpose, and Presence of Public Works and Utilities
Posted on: May 19, 2025 - 10:21am
APWA Graphic

Each year, the American Public Works Association (APWA) sets aside a week in May to honor the professionals who make our communities stronger, safer, and more connected through infrastructure and essential services.

This year’s theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” highlights the three cornerstone ideals that drive public works professionals to serve their communities every day:

"Meeting the needs of people is what gives public works its sense of purpose. Many times, public works professionals will never meet those whose lives have been impacted—because when things are going right, no one knows that public works is there. Yet, with or without fanfare, public works is ever present, working in the background to advance quality of life for all."
— APWA

In the City of Osawatomie, we proudly extend this recognition to both our Public Works and Utilities Departments, which work side by side every day to power and protect our city.

People

Public Works and Utilities are made up of real people - crew members, operators, technicians, supervisors - who care deeply about their neighbors and take pride in serving the community. They are first responders during storms, troubleshooters when systems fail, and caretakers of infrastructure we depend on every single day.

Purpose

Their purpose is clear: to provide vital services that enhance public safety, quality of life, and community growth. Whether it’s patching roads, maintaining clean water systems, ensuring electric service, maintaining parks and public buildings, or protecting stormwater systems, their work helps Osawatomie thrive.

Presence

Even when you don’t see them, they’re there. Public Works and Utilities crews are often the first to respond and the last to leave. They’re present during emergency calls, in construction zones, at water leaks, or power outages. Their quiet consistency keeps the city running, rain or shine, night or day.

What They Do in Osawatomie

Public Works:
  • Maintain 60 lane miles of city streets
  • Patch potholes, clear snow, clean streets
  • Oversee stormwater systems and drainage
  • Maintain public facilities and parks
Utilities:
  • Distribute electricity to 2,290+ meters
  • Treat and supply millions of gallons per day of clean water
  • Maintain 1,600+ water/sewer connections
  • Provide 24/7 emergency response

Together, these teams complete thousands of work orders each year, handle critical infrastructure upgrades, and plan for Osawatomie’s future.

Join Us in Celebrating

Help us say THANK YOU to the dedicated professionals who serve Osawatomie with purpose, presence, and pride. If you've experienced exceptional or extraordinary service text the keyword "THANKS" to 913-557-8777!