Marin's Inaugural Public Works Fair Is Next Month

SAN RAFAEL, CA — Marin County kids will have a chance to get their hands on tractors, emergency vehicles and heavy equipment — plus take in some live demonstrations — at the Public Works Fair set to take over the County Fairgrounds next month.

Envisioned as a "petting zoo" for vehicles and machines, the inaugural family-friendly fair is free to all and will feature several interactive stations by Lagoon Park. Organizers also promise a "professional-grade demonstration" on how to unclog a toilet.

The May 18 fair coincides with National Public Works Week and is designed to spread awareness and give youngsters a headstart on thinking about a career in public service.

"This will be our first Public Works Week Fair here at Marin County DPW and we couldn't be more excited to welcome everyone to come meet us, ask us questions, and get up close to some of our equipment," said Rosemarie Gaglione, the DPW director. "Parents, bring your little ones, the future accountants, heavy equipment operators, civil engineers, plumbers, environmental scientists and more to this family-friendly event. There is something for everybody in Public Works!"

Public Works Fair

• Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024
• Time: 10 a.m. 2 - p.m.
• Location: Marin County Fairgrounds (10 Ave of the Flags, San Rafael)

The county's radio communications team will be on hand to talk about their role in emergency services, and Waste Management staffers will discuss Zero Waste Marin and how to protect natural resources. Road maintenance and transportation staffers will talk about safety, and the flood control team will demonstrate how levees and pumps work.

The fair also promises plenty of games, face-painting, balloons, music and raffle prizes.

Due to repaving work at Veterans' Memorial Auditorium, the county recommends visitors park in the Exhibit Hall parking lot or take the SMART train to the Civic Center station.