National Public Works Week - May 16-22, 2010

Posted by Nancy Powell,
Traffic Management Center Supervisor

This week marks a 50 year milestone for professionals in our industry. By unanimous consent, the U.S. Senate designated the week of May 16th through 22nd as National Public Works Week, to recognize the men and women throughout the country who provide and maintain the infrastructure and services known as "public works." Transportation is one component of this collective group, celebrating 50 years of organizational achievement in services provided to communities throughout the nation.

On Tuesday, over 500 metropolitan area professionals gathered at the Hyatt Regency to recognize outstanding achievements among the members of the Kansas City Metro Chapter of APWA (American Public Works Association). KC Scout was honored to receive a National Award of Exceptional Performance in Journalism for its Public Relations campaign to promote the November 2009 launch of Ramp Metering in the metro area. The campaign, entitled "Maximizing The Flow" also received a Chapter Award for Technical Innovation. In addition, William "Rusty" James was honored as Chapter Professional Manager of the Year for Public Works/Emergency Management in recognition of his role as KC Scout Incident Management Coordinator and for his tireless efforts to achieve a renewed "One Accord Agreement" between more than 50 area law enforcement agencies and partners. As a result of this effort, there is greater cooperation among agencies sharing a common goal of quickly clearing roadway incidents to ease congestion and provide for the safety of first responders.

MoDOT was also recognized as a National Award Winner in the category of Diversity Exemplary Practices, for its innovative CDL (Commercial Drivers License) and Job Awareness Training program. This initiative, undertaken in partnership with several area faith-based organizations, was designed to help unemployed workers train to obtain a CDL, a requirement for many public works positions. The "Call To Oneness" campaign also offered coaching and mentoring in interviewing and life success skills. As a result, over 75 positions were filled in the metropolitan area, providing stimulus and economic gain for those workers and benefitting the citizens they now serve in their respective organizations.

Speaking as one of you, I salute all fellow public works employees in the Greater Kansas City area for the work you do to make our community truly one of the most livable cities in America. Congratulations!