Public Works Celebrates 2024 Progress During Public Works Week

Published on May 19, 2025

The Unified Government’s Public Works Department proudly celebrates National Public Works Week (NPWW) by releasing its 2024 Annual Report(PDF, 7MB), which reflects the people, purpose, and presence that define the department’s service to the community.

This year’s NPWW theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” captures the driving force behind every road repaired, every pipe monitored, and every plan laid for Kansas City, Kansas' (KCK) future. The same principles are prominently displayed throughout the 2024 Annual Report, showcasing the department’s progress, infrastructure improvements, and services provided to residents across all seven Public Works segments.

“Despite limited resources and historic challenges, our team delivered meaningful progress in 2024,” said Public Works Director Troy Shaw. “From winter storm response to award-winning wastewater treatment, the professionalism and determination of our staff never wavered.”

Highlights from the report:

• The grand opening of the new Environmental Services Campus, which centralizes operations for stormwater, wastewater, and flood management services.
• National and state recognition for Environmental Services, including multiple platinum and gold awards from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies.
• The completion of the Hutton & Leavenworth roundabout, the replacement of the Holliday Drive bridge, and extensive pothole patching efforts.
• A strong commitment to achieving APWA national accreditation, underscoring the department’s dedication to continuous improvement and best practices.

The annual report also celebrates community engagement, including classroom visits and pilot programs like the Free Mulch Giveaway. It highlights new investments in equipment, technology, and training that help Public Works remain responsive and resilient.

Public Works Week serves as a national reminder of the often-unseen efforts that keep communities safe, clean, and connected. The American Public Works Association, which sponsors NPWW each May, encourages agencies across the U.S. and Canada to share their stories, and KCK Public Works is proud to do just that.

View or download the Public Works 2024 Annual Report(PDF, 7MB).