Expanding Role of Public Works in Emergency Management

Abstract

Local public works agencies and state departments of transportation play a major role in disasters and other emergencies. Their maintenance and operations (field force) staffs constitute the most visible and vital element, especially in the response and recovery phases. They are among the first to respond and clear roadways so that police, fire, emergency medical, and utilities vehicles can access stricken areas. Field forces also assist with rescue, evacuation, and sheltering and provide temporary traffic control, perimeter security, animal control, transportation of supplies and equipment, on-site vehicle service, debris management, and restoration of infrastructure. The wide range of their capabilities is a valuable component in nearly any type of crisis. Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8 of 2003 included public works as “emergency responders.” However, overall acceptance and recognition by primary responder disciplines as equals in emergency management are still lacking. Even public works officials must raise awareness within their own discipline that emergency management is just as important as other functions. This paper examines the evolving mission of public works in emergency management.