National Public Works Week

Since 1960, municipalities across Canada have recognized National Public Works Week. This special week in May is used to educate, engage and inform the community about the essential role Public Works plays in our quality of life. Equally important is the opportunity to promote Public Works as a career choice and recognizing those who currently serve in these vital roles.

Colourful illustration of a futuristic city skyline surrounded by glowing light, with stylized figures wearing safety helmets in the foreground and wind turbines and neighbourhood homes in the background.

This year, National Public Works Week takes place from Sunday, May 17 to Saturday, May 23. The 2026 theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” highlights the visible and invisible roles Public Works professionals play in keeping Vaughan moving. You may notice road repairs, new sidewalks or upgrades to public spaces, but just as important is the work happening quietly underground and overnight, from maintaining water pipes and managing wastewater services to ensuring safe and reliable infrastructure. Together, these efforts form the foundation of thriving communities, reminding us that every project, seen or unseen, powers the connection between service and the people it supports.

 

FREE Open House event on May 23 
 

You’re invited to join us for a day of family-friendly activities at our Open House on Saturday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Joint Operations Centre (2800 Rutherford Rd.).

 

During the event, you can:

  • meet our Public Works teams.
  • check out some of the City’s fleet vehicles, like snowplows, street sweepers and a shredder truck.
  • pick up three FREE mulch bags per vehicle (for Vaughan residents).
  • purchase or exchange City-issued green bins, kitchen containers and composters.
  • dig in to free pizza and $2 ice cream cones.
  • step right up for carnival games.
  • enjoy live entertainment.
  • participate in giveaways.
  • and more!

 

Can’t make the Open House but want free mulch? No problem – there will be an alternative mulch pick-up day (for Vaughan residents) at the Joint Operations Centre on Friday, May 22 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.