Explore Public Works’ 2023 Annual Report

Published on May 29, 2024

The Unified Government’s Public Works Department is excited to present its 2023 Annual Report(PDF, 4MB), which highlights its achievements, challenges, and ongoing commitment to serving the community. This report offers residents an overview of the critical and vital services provided by Public Works and invites everyone to learn more about the department’s impact on daily life.

Highlights include:

Strategic Vision & Culture
The 2022-2024 Strategic Plan is a cornerstone of the report, outlining the department’s mission to foster a positive culture, deliver exceptional service, and make strategic investments. Core values such as empathy, accountability, and continuous improvement guide the team’s efforts. The plan sets ambitious outcomes to enhance public trust, ensure sustainable service delivery, and cultivate a culture of excellence. It also welcomes team members who joined Public Works in 2023.

Achievements
The report showcases major achievements throughout the year. Highlights include groundbreaking for the new sewer maintenance and crime scene investigation facilities, advancements in pothole patching, and increased pavement preservation efforts. The Early Learning Driver Training (ELDT) program, a cost-saving initiative, has successfully trained new CDL drivers in-house and produced substantial cost savings.

Community Services and Impact
Public Works comprises diverse teams, each crucial in maintaining and improving infrastructure. From Street Maintenance and Fleet Services to Water Pollution Control and Geospatial Services, the report details the extensive efforts made to ensure the safety, cleanliness, and functionality of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas. The dedication of these teams is evident in their management of over 1,300 vehicles, protection of local waterways, and enforcement of city parking ordinances.

Addressing Challenges
The report does not shy away from discussing ongoing challenges, such as the declining Pavement Condition Index and the critical state of bridge and facility maintenance. These issues highlight the need for continued investment and innovative solutions to ensure the longevity and reliability of the city’s infrastructure.

Public Works encourages all residents to explore the full 2023 Annual Report(PDF, 4MB) on the department’s webpage. This document celebrates the department’s achievements and is a transparent record of its dedication to the community. Public engagement and support are essential as the department continues to address the community’s evolving needs.