Jones County breaks ground on first dedicated public works building

TRENTON — Jones County broke ground Oct. 19 on its first dedicated public works building, a facility that will give employees space to maintain vehicles and equipment and handle administrative duties.

The groundbreaking took place at 1539 N.C. 58 N. in Trenton.

For years, the county’s public works employees have largely operated out of their vehicles and adapted available spaces to meet their needs, according to Jennifer King, Jones County deputy administrator and consolidated human services director. Staff members have used the Civic Center’s large auditorium to work on vehicles and equipment.

The new building will provide dedicated space for that work, along with a few offices for the administrative responsibilities that support daily operations.

“This is about taking care of the people who take care of Jones County,” King said. “Our Public Works crew has made it work for years, often working out of their vehicles and using whatever space was available. They’ve earned a place built for the work they do, and I couldn’t be prouder to see this happening for them.”

King described the project as an investment in employees whose work supports county services.

“This facility gives our Public Works crew the space they need to support the services our citizens rely on every day,” she said. “They’ve always found a way to take care of Jones County, and this is an opportunity for Jones County to take care of them.”