On Thurs., April 22, the Traffic Operations Division of Pierce County Public Works and Utilities celebrated Take Your Kid to Work Day by hosting a behind-the-scenes tour and educational session. Twelve kids and their parents participated as they learned the ins and outs of how the division works.

Traffic Operations Supervisor Rick Butner taught kids about the negative effects of sign vandalism, showed them the different types of sign sheeting, and emphasized the importance of reflective traffic signs. As part of the tour, kids got to see an actual street sign being made and learned about different roadway markings, reflectors, and the glass beads and paint used in roadway striping. Kids also got an up close view of the roadway striping truck.

The last stop was a tour of traffic signals. Kids looked at the different types of equipment that make up a traffic signal. They seemed especially excited to learn that a green light actually has a blue lens and that the signal head is much larger than it looks.

Because Public Works and Utilities celebrated this event in conjunction with Earth Day and National Work Zone Awareness Week, the Traffic Operations Division took the opportunity to educate kids on the different recycling programs they participate in. Kids left with an orange work vest and yellow hard hat to emphasize the importance of paying attention in work zones.

“This was a great opportunity to share what we do at work with the kids, and as a bonus it was Earth Day and National Work Zone Awareness Week — we had a great turnout,” said Butner.