AUBURN – Auburn Public Services Department will participate in the Androscoggin County celebration of National Public Works Week, a family-friendly event planned by the Maine Chapter of the American Public Works Association.

For one week each year, the Maine Chapter of the American Public Works Association welcomes the opportunity to provide fun activities for the public and discuss the work they do.

The association notes that public works in the 21st century means so much more than plowing roads. Across the state, dedicated professionals conduct a range of essential jobs, from providing safe drinking water to managing recycling programs, from tree planting to hazardous waste collection. The goal of the association is to improve the quality of life for all residents, leading to stronger, more vibrant, and economically secure communities.

This year’s theme, “Building for Today, Planning for Tomorrow,” focuses on communities. “Building” refers to the day-to-day aspect of public works meant to provide everyday quality of life, while “Planning” references the sustainable practices that ensure quality of life for future generations.

Local activities are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17. This event has been relocated to the Public Service Building at 296 Gracelawn Road from the scheduled location at the Auburn Mall, due to inclement weather being forecasted.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to explore dump trucks and graders, participate in games and receive toy hard hats and balloons. Other giveaways include door prizes consisting of local, retail gift cards.

Demonstrations and displays will be provided by the Auburn Public Services Department as well as public works departments from Sabattus, Turner and surrounding communities.

For more information, contact Auburn Public Services Planner Jaclyn Beebe at jbeebe@auburnmaine.gov.

Editor’s note: Story was edited to relect change of venue due to weather.