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public works

plural noun

structures, as roads, dams, or post offices, paid for by government funds for public use.

public works

plural noun

engineering projects and other constructions, financed and undertaken by a government for the community

public works

Public facilities and improvements financed by the government for the public good. Public works include hospitals, bridges, highways, and dams. These projects may be funded by local, state, or federal appropriations. (See also pork-barrel legislation.)

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Word History and Origins

Origin of public works¹

First recorded in 1670–80

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Silverstein warned that public works projects usually end up costing “150% to 200% of what people think they will cost” and that sticking with septic systems is still the most likely outcome.

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Yaroslavsky said she hoped the planned reduction to Inside Safe would save jobs in the planning, public works and police departments.

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Ryan Kurtzman, a technology partnerships officer for the city’s Technology and Innovation Department, said his office collaborated with the parks department, public works and the city manager’s office to select locations for the restrooms.

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Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement that the situation is “truly beyond comprehension” and that public works crews are working to replace the trees as soon as possible.

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“City public works crews are assessing the damage and we will be making plans to quickly replace these damaged trees,” Bass’ spokesperson Zach Seidl said in a statement.

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public utility Public Works Administration

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