From asphalt patches due to underground utility repairs to inclement weather, the Town of Clayton’s Streets Division works year-round to maintain sidewalks, roads, and signs to make sure school buses can run, parents can get to work, and grandparents can safely take their grandkids to soccer practice. Whether it’s routine maintenance or rapid response, their work makes everyday life possible for visitors, residents, and businesses. 

Observed May 18-24, National Public Works Week celebrates the teams behind the essential services that keep communities running. In Clayton, the Streets Division is one of many Public Works crews whose efforts keep the Town safe, connected, and moving forward. 

Joey Faison, the Street Maintenance Crew Leader, has worked with the Town for nearly eight years. What motivates him most is being part of something bigger, helping people get where they need to go, every single day. 

“I love the community of Clayton,” said Faison. “I love coming to work and seeing immediate gratification, being able to fix a problem. When we go out and do the work, you can see the results right away. And I get a sense of pride from that.” 

This past winter brought three snow events - the first in several years. While many residents were home staying warm, Faison and his crew were on the streets preparing and responding. 

“We make sure our trucks and equipment are ready to go. We pretreat the roads with brine, and then, while most people are at home in the middle of the night, we’re out plowing, spreading sand and salt, and clearing the roads,” he said. 

And even after the snow stops, their work continues. Crews wash down equipment, inspect for damage, and restock supplies so everything stays in good condition and is ready for the next call.  

“There’s a big cleanup process because our equipment is expensive, and we want it to last,” added Faison. 

Weather events demand the team’s constant readiness and resilience. The same dedication applies during heavy rain events, which Faison says are becoming more frequent. 

“We’ve had torrential downpours like three inches in an hour,” he said. “These storms can overwhelm storm drains and flood roadways, requiring crews to respond quickly to prevent hazards and keep traffic moving. Clearing debris, monitoring low-lying areas, and working in challenging conditions are all part of the job.” 

Faison said the close-knit teamwork and shared collective focus within the crew keep him motivated every day.  

“It’s the support from my team and the people who trained me. That’s what makes the job worth it.” 

He also wants the public to understand the careful coordination and manpower the work really requires.  

“Sometimes people think it’s just a few guys with shovels,” he said. “But it takes planning, it takes people, and it takes equipment. Two guys can’t shuttle everything we need and run operations at the same time.” 

And while the tasks vary, the team’s commitment to safety and service remains constant.  

“We’re out here in all kinds of conditions,” relayed Faison. “Everyone wants to go home at the end of the day. So, we look out for each other and take every precaution. 

Explore the work of the Streets Division and Public Works Department at townofclaytonnc.org./PublicWorks.