Public Works & Utilities Week recognizes the dedicated teams and award-winning projects that support everyday life in San Luis Obispo
The City of San Luis Obispo joins communities nationwide from May 18 – 22, 2026, in celebrating National Public Works & Utilities Week.
This year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” reflects the City’s commitment to delivering essential services that support a vibrant, connected, and resilient community.
The City invites the community to celebrate at a special Farmers’ Market event:
Thursday, May 21, 2026: Public Works & Utilities Night at Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market – Visit the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market to explore Public Works & Utilities Night. City and County agencies will showcase equipment and host interactive booths. Children will have the opportunity to engage with tools and machines used in public works projects and meet the staff who help maintain the community every day.
Public Works and Utilities professionals play a vital role in maintaining San Luis Obispo’s exceptional quality of life. From maintaining streets and water systems to managing waste and supporting city infrastructure, these dedicated teams work year-round to keep the City running efficiently.
This year, the City’s commitment to excellence was recognized with multiple awards from the American Public Works Association (APWA), the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Southwest Parking and Transportation Association (SWPTA), highlighting the innovation and impact of local infrastructure and community projects.
APWA Outstanding Project Award & ASCE Outstanding Parks and Recreation Project:: Laguna Lake Dog Park
- Project Manager: Noah Maidrand
- Inspector: Bobby Browning
- Proponent: Parks and Recreation
APWA Outstanding Project Award & ASCE Outstanding Architectural Engineering Project: Cultural Arts District Parking Structure
- Project Managers: Madeline Kacsinta and Morgan Edmunson
- Inspector: Bryce Crespin
- Proponent: Parking
APWA Outstanding Project Award & ASCE Outstanding Flood Management Project: Mid-Higuera Bypass
- Project Manager: Noah Maidrand
- Inspector: Bobby Browning
- Proponent: Natural Resources
ASCE Outstanding Water Project Award: Intake Tower Valve Repair Project at Whale Rock Reservoir
- Project Manager: Miguel Barcenas
- Inspector: Eric Jorgensen
- Proponent: Whale Rock Reservoir Commission
ASCE Outstanding Young Member Forum Officer
- Honoree: Morgan Edmunson
SWPTA 2025 Best Overall Parking Program
- Awarded to Donna King, Parking Program Manager
These awards reflect the impactful projects our team delivers and recognize the outstanding work of City staff.
“A significant part of the work we do happens behind the scenes, but it’s critical to keeping our City moving,” said Aaron Floyd, Director of Public Works & Utilities for the City of San Luis Obispo. “Public Works & Utilities Week is a time to appreciate and recognize the individuals who make it all possible.”
In San Luis Obispo, Public Works and Utilities teams manage essential services and infrastructure across a wide range of areas, including transportation, water, wastewater, stormwater, solid waste, and the upkeep of public buildings and parks.
Behind the scenes, these teams work tirelessly every day to provide essential services and deliver projects that benefit the entire community.
About National Public Works & Utilities Week
Sponsored by the American Public Works Association since 1960, National Public Works & Utilities Week celebrates the contributions of public works professionals across the U.S. and Canada, now encompassing more than 32,000 members. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” acknowledges that the roots of service run deep in public works.
The City of San Luis Obispo extends a heartfelt thank you to all Public Works and Utilities professionals for their commitment, hard work, and service to the community. For information about National Public Works & Utilities Week, visit www.apwa.org.
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