The City of Bellingham's annual free Meet-a-Truck event returns next Thursday, May 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. in front of City Hall on Lottie Street. The event celebrates National Public Works Week and gives residents of all ages a chance to get up close with the heavy equipment that keeps Bellingham's roads, water lines, storm drains, and sewer systems running.
The event is put on by Bellingham's Public Works Department, which maintains the city's infrastructure including streets, utilities, and facilities. National Public Works Week, observed annually in May, is a nationwide recognition of the professionals who work behind the scenes to keep cities functioning. Bellingham has used the occasion in past years to invite the community in, and Meet-a-Truck has become one of the more popular family-friendly events the city hosts downtown.
Attendees can expect to see and explore the trucks and equipment used by Public Works crews in their daily operations, including vehicles used for street maintenance, utility work, and storm drain management. City staff typically walk visitors through what each piece of equipment does and take questions from curious kids and adults alike.
This year's event will also feature children's crafts in partnership with the Bellingham Public Library, adding an extra draw for families with young children. No registration is required, and there is no cost to attend.
City Hall is located at 210 Lottie Street in downtown Bellingham. Lottie Street runs along the front of the building, and the event will be set up in the area directly in front of the main entrance. Parking is available in the surrounding downtown area, and the location is accessible via the Whatcom Transportation Authority bus network. Full event details are posted on the city's calendar.
The city also used this week's Inside Bellingham newsletter to highlight several other May initiatives, including updates on ongoing infrastructure projects and seasonal programs. Residents can sign up for that weekly update through the City of Bellingham website to stay current on city news between newsletters.
