VALDOSTA — The city’s public works department has been officially designated as first responders during emergency situations.

Richard Hardy, public works director, said they have always helped with preplanning for disasters and worked with law enforcement and rescue agencies during emergency situations.

“We play a major role in responding (to these situations),” Hardy said. “A lot of times, we clear access roads to make sure all other agencies can get to the scene.”

This recognition comes from the American Public Works Association, which is a not-for-profit, professional association of public works agencies, private companies and individuals.

The APWA designed vehicle tags with “First Responders” written on them to be attached to every public works vehicle. This is the first time Valdosta Public Works has received these tags and recognition for the national organization.

“The (APWA) had our annual convention last week, and we were provided with these tags to display them proudly on our vehicles,” Hardy said. “It’s very significant. I mean, we do the job. Our troops are out in the field. They’re responding and we want to make sure they get the representation (they deserve).”

For example, when a rare snow storm hit South Georgia earlier this year, there was a seven car pile up on the South Patterson Street overpass. Both police and fire officials couldn’t gain access to the pile up. 

“So public works responded with the appropriate vehicles and put down sand, salt, making sure that fire and police could respond,” Hardy said. “We also helped clear the roadway, removing some of the vehicles that had incidents.”

Anthony Musgrove is the operations superintendent for public works and has worked at the department for 18 years. He said it’s a good feeling being recognized and for the community to know we’re first responders.

“A lot of times people just think of first responders as police department or fire department,” Musgrove said. “Now, we’re recognized. We’re always on the scene, as well.”

He said anytime after a storm, emergency personnel can’t get to where they are needed before public works clears the road full of debris.

Although Musgrove is proud of the tag and the recognition, he said he has always considered himself and his fellow colleagues at the public works as first responders.

Thomas Lynn is a government and education reporter for The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be reached at (229)244-3400 ext. 1256