SERVING ABOVE & BEYOND

MIDDLETOWN, RI (MAY 18, 2026) – The Department of Public Works was honored Monday night for its exemplary efforts during the Blizzard of 2026.

Town Council President Paul M. Rodrigues said while most people were at home on Feb. 22-23, DPW crews were out behind the wheel for 24 hours plus straight, away from their families, clearing roads and making Middletown passable.

That’s what’s overlooked by many, Rodrigues said, the sacrifices made by the public works team, no matter what they’re up against, like the worst snowstorm anyone has seen locally in decades — and possibly ever.

After Rodrigues read a citation from the council to public works, the crowd in the Town Hall chambers stood as one and recognized the DPW team with heartfelt applause.

“They’re the ones out there on the front line while rest of us are sitting at home,” Rodrigues said. “What people don’t recognize is the time away (from family), the safety issues in a storm like that, the worry from their families in a storm like that. The overall commitment and dedication that you guys showed the entire town, from the senior leadership all the way down to the newest guy, it was an incredible amount of work that you did.”

Public Works Director Robert Hanley said the recognition was appreciated, but he and his team were doing their jobs, from the most veteran staffer to the newest hire. 

When people join up with MDPW, Hanley said they know the expectations are high and there’s a level of dedication that’s demanded.

“We have a very young department and these guys more than pulled through and did an excellent job,” Hanley said. “We had the equipment to do it.”

He added there was a level of pride in being one of the first municipalities in Rhode Island that was back up and running despite more than 30 inches of snowfall.

“Let it be known we were the first community on (Aquidneck) Island with our roads open,” Hanley said.

Shaking hands with each of the public works staff on hand, Rodrigues said the team’s work would not be forgotten.

“That was probably a once in a lifetime storm, hopefully,” Rodrigues said. “It’s important that when people do great things, they’re recognized for it. It keeps morale up and it’s definitely deserved, based on what you accomplished.” 

Document Link: https://mdl.town/NYCU-DPW

About Middletown

The Town of Middletown is a vibrant municipality located on Aquidneck Island, known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, diverse economy and strong sense of community. For more information about all we have to offer, visit MiddletownRI.gov online.

 Media Contact

Matt Sheley

Public Affairs Officer

401-842-6543

msheley@middletownri.com