VALDOSTA — Families gathered at the Five Points Shopping Center on Wednesday for the City of Valdosta’s Second Annual Touch-A-Truck event.

Held as part of Georgia Cities Week, the event brought together departments from Public Works, Utilities, Stormwater, and Engineering. The events serve as an interactive experience that provides families with a close-up look at the equipment used to keep their city running. 

“It gives the kids an opportunity to see the trucks, get inside, and blow the horns. Families get to see the large equipment that we use on a daily basis actually works,” said Public Works Director Larry Ogden.

City staff were on-site to offer demonstrations and answer questions, helping attendees understand the critical roles each department plays in maintaining public infrastructure. The first Touch-A-Truck event took place at Valdosta’s Public Works Compound after being inspired by a similar event from South Georgia Medical Center. Touch-A-Truck was part of a statewide initiative by the Georgia Municipal Association to promote civic pride and education by showcasing the efforts of local governments. 

The event not only highlighted the city’s essential services but also honored the often-unnoticed work of those behind the scenes.

“The public works and sanitation department are basically the unsung heroes. There’s a lot of stuff behind the scenes that citizens just do not see,” Ogden added.