Public Works crews digging up sewer lines or patching streets is a common-enough sight. Ever wonder what it would be like to do the job? 

Homewood will celebrate National Public Works Week by giving local residents a chance to see what it’s like to be on the Public Works staff.

For three hours on Saturday, May 21, residents young and old will have a chance to see, touch and try the big machines that workers use to maintain and improve village infrastructure. The department will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 17755 Ashland Ave. 

Village President Richard Hofeld also is expected to issue a proclamation declaring Public Works Week in Homewood and recognizing the department’s contributions every day to the community’s health, safety, comfort and quality of life, according to Dave Ebert, assistant public works director.

The event is an opportunity for the department to educate the public on all the services that the village provides, he said.

“We all played in the sandbox with diggers and dump trucks as kids,” Ebert said. “We stared at construction sites with the huge equipment moving things effortlessly.  This is the chance to come see that big equipment, get to watch it in operation up close, or possibly operate it yourself. 

“Honestly, who doesn’t want to get in and operate the backhoe?”

Public Works staff will offer close supervision and guidance for residents who want to get a sense for how big machinery operates. In 2015, guests were able to operate a backhoe, a stump saw and a road roller. Children were given rides in a bucket lift.

Children will again have a chance to play with toy equipment in a sand pile and dress up as workers. 

Tours of the water plant will also be offered.

Refreshments will be served.

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Photo gallery:
Scenes from Homewood Public Works 2015 open house (H-F Chronicle, May 20, 2015)