Richmond’s popular Public Works Open House returns in person after a three year pandemic hiatus. The free, interactive event takes place on Saturday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the City Operations Yard located at 5599 Lynas Lane, and gives people a behind the scenes look at what keeps the City’s roads, water and sewer infrastructure, parks and more at their best.

“We are delighted to bring you the return of one of our most anticipated annual events, the Public Works Open House, where our staff and others volunteer their time to present this fun all-ages event,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “We are proud to showcase Richmond’s sustainable work practices, environmental leadership and commitment to health, safety and quality of life.”

This hands-on outdoor event will take place rain or shine. People can expect to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of interactive activities. Among the offerings: 

• Children may pick up an event passport at the Greeting Station to receive a free kid’s food coupon and collect stamps from the various booths to enter to win a raffle prize; 
• Visitors can check out full-sized heavy equipment such as excavators and dump trucks, take a picture beside a Richmond Fire-Rescue fire truck, learn about flood protection, visit booths from a variety of City departments, play in the Kidstruction and playground areas, and more;
• The popular Show and Shine classic car show sponsored by CUPE 394 returns with an impressive display and collection of adrenaline-inducing vehicles;
• A Community Challenge activity station will be set up to get you active and your heart pumping;
• Interactive environmental exhibits will also be available to provide lawn care and gardening information, along with sustainability and conservation tips; and
• Live entertainment will fill the air with music by Big Easy Funk Ensemble, Smoke Wagon and the Wild Moccasin Dancers.  

Bring a reusable water bottle to refresh yourself with some of Canada’s best drinking water from one of the many portable tap water stations. There will also be food vendors on site with delicious meal and snack options.

Event parking is limited so walking, taking public transit, carpooling or riding your bike or scooter is highly encouraged. Wheel Watch will be on site to safely secure bicycles, scooters, wagons and strollers during the event. 

Richmond’s Public Works Open House kicks off the annual National Public Works Week (May 21-27), which recognizes the men and women who provide and maintain the infrastructure services known as public works.

For more information on the Public Works Open House, visit https://www.richmond.ca/culture/calendar/special-events/Open.htm