RELEASE DATE:               Friday,  May 14, 2021

CONTACT:                        Theresa Wright

PHONE:                            831-775-4411

E-MAIL:                            theresa@tamcmonterey.org

MONTEREY COUNTY – The American Public Works Association, Monterey Bay Chapter, along with the Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC), and public agencies in Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties, are celebrating “National Public Works Week” May 16-23, 2021, in partnership with the American Public Works Association/Canadian Public Works Association (APWA, CPWA).

Declaring May 16-23, 2021  as National Public Works Week offers the Central Coast and communities across the nation, the opportunity to recognize the significant contributions made by public works professionals to the health, safety and quality of life in our local communities.

From providing clean water to disposing of solid waste, to building roads and bridges or planning for and implementing mass transit, to devising emergency management strategies to meet natural or man-made disasters, the availability of public works services determines a society’s quality of life. Their work is essential yet goes mostly  unnoticed, unless it’s something monumental like the recent rebuilding of Highway 1 at Rat Creek in Big Sur.  

When asked why the proclamation and recognition was important, Brian McMinn, President of the Monterey Bay Area Regional Chapter of APWA, replied, “It’s the things you take for granted. The water flows from the facet, the toilet flushes, the road is paved, the lights come on. It’s  all of the stuff that makes our lives comfortable, enjoyable, and in some cases, lifesaving. This week is about raising awareness  about the  work that they do and to inspire the next generation of public works professionals about the breadth, scope, and importance of public works careers.”

Emphasizing that point further, Debbie Hale, Executive Director of TAMC said,  “These are the individuals who focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that keep a community running. They are of vital importance to the sustainability and resiliency of communities throughout the Central Coast. Celebrating Public Works Week allows us the opportunity to thank the men and women who provide these valuable services.”

For more information, about APWA, Monterey Bay Chapter and career opportunities, contact, Brian McMinn, Chapter President , at brian@cityofmarina.org  or 831- 884-1212.

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“Chartered in 1937, the American Public Works Association is the largest and oldest international educational and professional organization of public agencies, private sector companies, and individuals dedicated to providing high quality public works goods and services. APWA members are involved in the construction, operation and maintenance of public infrastructure for towns, cities, and counties.”

 “APWA, Monterey Bay Chapter has been serving Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties since 1962. For more information contact Brian McMinn, Chapter President at bmcminn@cityofmarina.org or 831.884.1212. Visit the chapter website at http://monterey.apwa.net/# “

“The Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) is responsible for investing in regional transportation projects for Monterey County residents, businesses and visitors.  The mission of TAMC is to develop and maintain a multimodal transportation system that enhances mobility, safety, access, environment quality and economic activities in Monterey County. For more information visit www.tamcmonterey.org or call 831.775.0903.”