Kingston Public Works to host annual open house on May 23

The City of Kingston’s Public Works department is inviting the community to its annual Public Works Day on Saturday, May 23, as part of National Public Works Week, May 17-23. 

The open house will take place at the Public Works headquarters, 701 Division St., from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature vehicles and machinery from Public Works and other City departments and partners such as Solid Waste, Engineering, Kingston Transit, Utilities Kingston and more. There will be hands-on activities and demonstrations, as well as information about many City programs and initiatives.  

“Come to Public Works headquarters and connect with the people who help keep Kingston running smoothly year-round,” says Karen Santucci, Director of Public Works and Solid Waste. “We invite you to learn more about our many roles and responsibilities and get an up-close look at how we and our colleagues across the City operate. There will be lots of equipment, vehicles and machines for kids and kids at heart!” 

Across Canada and the United States, Public Works Week is observed during the third full week of May to recognize the importance of public works in society. The 2026 theme is Rooted in Service, Powered by Community. 

Kingston’s Public Works department oversees a variety of services and programs, including winter operations, road maintenance, parks and sports field maintenance, tree planting and pruning, community cleanups and more.  

“Public Works staff are highly skilled and versatile, transitioning from winter work like plowing and snow removal to pothole filling and maintaining green spaces in the warmer months,” says Santucci. “All are welcome to attend and see firsthand some of the work we and our colleagues do around Kingston!” 

Parking will be available at the Railway Street entrance to the Public Works property. The Division Street entrance to the property will be closed.