public works

noun

UK /ˌpʌblɪk ˈwɜːks/

US /ˌpʌblɪk ˈwɝːks/

Public works are big things the government builds for everyone to use, like roads, bridges, and parks.

The city spent money on public works, including a new bridge and a library.

SYNONYMS

infrastructure public facilities civic projects municipal works

RELATED WORDS

government construction roads utilities taxes

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The department or agency of a government that plans and builds these projects.

She works for public works and helps fix the city's water pipes.

3. Construction projects funded by the government for community use.

The new dam was one of the largest public works in the region's history.

4. The systems and structures a community needs to function, such as sewers and streetlights.

Storms can damage public works like drainage systems and power lines.