Local public works crews will put the skills they use to serve their communities to the test while competing for bragging rights during the Gulf Coast Heavy Equipment Roadeo on Friday, Sept. 25.
The city of Foley is hosting the event at OWA Parks and Resort, a sponsor of the Roadeo. Activities will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is open to the public, and admission is free.
Participants will compete in a series of challenges testing their skills with heavy equipment used in their jobs. The competitions will highlight the accuracy, control and technical ability local public works employees have developed while operating several types of heavy machinery.
Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the Roadeo is a chance for workers who are often not in the public eye to demonstrate the skills they use while serving their communities.
“It’s something that gives all the public employees a real sense of pride,” Hellmich said. “They don’t always get a lot of public recognition in their jobs and this is a chance to get together and show what they can do.”
Events will include competitions using mini-excavators, bulldozers, excavators and skid steers. Operators will be challenged to complete tasks designed to test their precision and control of the equipment.
In addition to contests between public works crews, mayors from several municipalities are scheduled to take part in a special competition during the event.
More than 20 cities and other agencies have registered so far to participate. Registration continues through Friday, Aug. 21.
The event will also feature live music by Chitlin Switch and food sales. Proceeds from lunch sales will benefit Baldwin County Youth Reach.