The Public Works Department is made up of various sub-departments including Fleet, Line Repair, Streets/Stormwater and Traffic, Wastewater, and Water. Each week, over 100 employees are responsible for the maintenance, monitoring, and improvement of existing and new infrastructure across League City which includes everything from roadways and traffic lights to storm drains, sewers, and water production.
Below are some tips and projects they are working on:
Preventive Maintenance on the City’s Traffic Signals
The Traffic Signal Department routinely performs maintenance checks on all the City’s traffic signals throughout the year. Semi-annual inspections consist of inspecting the operations and maintenance of the traffic signal system. Annual inspection consists of cleaning and checking of all safety items to keep them in good working operation. These inspections are very important to help catch minor issues that can turn into bigger problems if not addressed. Keep in mind that while traffic crews are performing maintenance or repairs, it might be necessary to flash the signals “red” in all directions for a short duration so safety equipment can be tested.
Employment Outreach Event
The League City Wastewater Department was present at the 16th annual “Oceans of Opportunity” job fair. Employment Outreach events of this nature are a great way to meet and interact with individuals looking for employment and to educate them on a rewarding career in Public Works with the City of League City. Wastewater joined up with Water Production, Line Repair, Streets and Stormwater, and Human Resources during this event to speak with individuals seeking a career in Galveston County.
Water Leak Repaired in Waterford Harbor Subdivision
Crews recently investigated a slow leak in the Waterford Harbor Subdivision, upon arrival the leak was surfacing up through the expansion joints of the roadway pavement. Once excavations began, it was determined there was a leak on the service line just at the edge of the property, allowing the repairs to be made without removing and replacing the roadway pavement. A five-foot section of the damaged 1 ½ inch service line was removed, and two brass compression fittings were installed to complete the repair. The hole was backfilled, and restoration of the yard was completed.
Engine Replacement at the Concrete Batch Plant
City’s Fleet technicians were able to replace an engine on a 2011 cement plant used frequently for sidewalks, driveways, and other city easement repairs. Although it took a few weeks for the engine to be delivered, staff was able to complete the replacement within 7 hours and get the plant back up and running.
Why and How Should I Mulch my Trees?
Mulch is valuable for your tree’s health and care because:
- Insulates the soil helping to provide a buffer from heat and cold temperatures.
- Retains water helping to keep the roots moist.
- Keeps weeds out to help prevent root competition.
- Prevents soil compaction.
- Reduces lawn mower damage.
Steps to adding mulch around your tree:
- Add mulch to the base of your tree by removing any grass within a 3 to 10-foot area depending on the size of your tree.
- Pour natural mulch such as shredded hardwood or shredded pine 2 to 4 inches deep within the circle.
- Keep the mulch from touching the trunk of the tree, the flare should be visible – can make a “donut” shape around tree. See picture below of a “Mulch Volcano” which is bad and “Proper Mulching” which is the correct way to add mulch.
