Written By JOSHUA DRAKES

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Residents in Shelburne will have a chance to get up close with some of the town's biggest and busiest vehicles later this spring, as the annual Touch-a-Truck event returns on May 23.

Running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Operations Yard (124 Luxton Way, Shelburne), Mayor Wade Mills said that the family-friendly event invites children and families to explore a wide range of municipal and emergency vehicles and connect further with the community.

“Touch a Truck is one of those special events that brings our community together in a way that's both fun and meaningful,” he said. “It gives children and families a chance to connect with the people, vehicles, and services that help keep Shelburne running every day.”

Attendees can climb aboard or check out equipment such as snowplows, excavators, backhoes, lawn maintenance vehicles, and more while meeting the staff who operate them.

Shelburne Fire Services will also be on site, giving visitors a closer look at emergency response vehicles. A special “sensory hour” will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., offering a quieter experience without horns, sirens or flashing lights, making the event more accessible for those sensitive to noise and stimulation.

Mayor Mills said he was proud to see a sensory-friendly section to accommodate more guests and encouraged donations to the local food bank, which further adds a community-minded element to the day.

“I'm especially proud that we're including a sensory-friendly hour to ensure the experience is welcoming and accessible to all,” he said. “As we celebrate Public Works Week, this event is a great reminder of the important work happening behind the scenes in our town. I encourage everyone to come out, enjoy the day, and, if they're able, support our local food bank with a donation.”

The event is held as part of National Public Works Week, which runs from May 17 to 23, 2026. The week is designed to recognize the often behind-the-scenes work of public works professionals and educate residents about the essential services they provide.

Public works departments are responsible for critical infrastructure and services that keep communities running smoothly, including road maintenance, waste collection, water systems and public spaces.

Since its inception in 1960, the week has grown into a North America-wide effort to highlight how these services support safe, healthy and connected communities.

By combining hands-on activities with public education, events like Touch-a-Truck aim to give residents a greater appreciation for the people and equipment that keep their town operating every day.