Public Works earns coveted national accreditation

Recognition Places Greenville’s Public Works Department Among an Elite Group

Greenville’s own Public Works department proved it is among the best in the country, earning a coveted national accreditation during a week celebrating Public Works agencies.

The department earned national accreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA), the national nonprofit professional association for the public works field. In doing so, the City’s Public Works became one of just 290 organizations — out of more than 30,000 nationwide — to achieve APWA accreditation, earning a perfect score in its first-ever submission.

“The review team consistently praised our city, highlighting its cleanliness, our facilities — particularly Public Works — the professionalism, and the strong teamwork among city departments and partner businesses,” Public Works Director Dave Derrick said.

The review examined 283 practices, seven of which were deemed “model practices” and are now featured in APWA’s national accreditation database as examples for other agencies to follow.

“Achieving APWA National Accreditation is a significant milestone for our Public Works team and a testament to years of dedication, discipline, and pride in serving the Greenville community,” said City Manager Shannon Lavrin. “With fewer than 250 accredited public works agencies across the United States and Canada, this recognition places Greenville among an elite group.”

The announcement came during National Public Works Week, when a variety of events and recognitions highlighted the department’s hard work and commitment to the community. Festivities included an employee appreciation picnic, a Backhoe Rodeo and a community open house hosted by Public Works that drew nearly 500 attendees.

The open house featured equipment displays, staff demonstrations and hands-on activities from the department’s nine divisions. Visitors voted for their favorite division, and Stormwater earned this year’s Golden Hard Hat Award.