Kids got a chance to feel what it's like to sit in the driver seat of a front-end loader, bobcat and a variety of other machines during Public Works Day held at the Jasper Activity Centre on May 21.
This was the first year Jasper took part in the event, which was celebrated across North America from May 17-23.
“Public works is really the heart of service for any municipality,” said Bruce Thompson, director of operations. “It gives the public an opportunity to meet the people who drive the equipment, climb down man holes and plow the streets.”
On display was as an assortment of machines, from the town's hydrovac truck to its new garbage truck, which arrived the night before.
Of particular interest was the town's new valve actuator, which helps to open and close water valves. In the past, valves had to be opened and closed manually, increasing the risk of a rupture which can cost tens of thousands of dollars in emergency repairs.
With 22 employees, including its seasonal workers, the operations department keeps the town running smoothly 365 days a year. This includes, clearing snow, filling potholes, maintaining sewer and water lines and ensuring parks and trees are maintained.
“We think it's a good idea for people to understand what we do and what we use to do those things,” said Thompson.
Earlier this month, the municipality purchased a new grader for nearly $300,000 to replace the aging one currently in its fleet.
“It's a critical piece for us in the winter time,” Thompson, explaining it's hard to lease a machine in the winter because they are in such high demand.
The new grader is expected to arrive in three or four months.
Paul Clarke
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