Public works, according to Wikipedia, is “a broad category of infrastructure projects, financed and constructed by the government, for recreational, employment, and health and safety uses in the greater community.” But what does the term really mean to those of us who benefit from the efforts of thousands of public works professionals?

To educate the public—at both national and grassroots levels—about the important role public works plays in every aspect of our daily lives, the American Public Works Association (APWA) designates the third full week in May each year as National Public Works Week (NPWW). NPWW takes place May 15-21, 2016, and since its initial designation in 1960, the week has grown to be recognized by local governments of all sizes.

This year, ICMA and the American Public Works Association partnered to develop a complimentary e-book that focuses on a range of public works-related topics related. This collection of articles, originally published online, in ICMA’s PM (Public Management) magazine, and in the APWA Reporter, discuss leading practices in public works management as well as the importance of professional certification and accreditation. If you are a member of ICMA, click here to be directed to a complimentary copy of this e-book. If you are not a member, fill out the form below to download. 

In honor of NPWW, APWA has developed a number of resources that include suggested messaging, activities, and materials designed to educate residents about the importance of public employees. These materials can be easily modified for use throughout the year or can help you plan for next year’s NPWW celebration.

For additional resources, be sure to check out ICMA’s public works topic page and the newest section of ICMA’s Life, Well Run Public Awareness campaign website, “Community Heroes,” which spotlights several individuals who are hard at work in public works careers.

Download the 'Leading Practices in Public Works Management' e-book today!

What's inside the e-Book?

- Managing successfully in a complex built environment

- Tips for stormwater management

- Best practices for efficient fleet management

- APWA Accreditation, a Step in Houston’s Continuous Improvement Process

- And, more!