The Public Service Department is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the city’s infrastructure, utilities, and essential services to ensure a high quality of life for residents. The department oversees several key divisions:
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Electrical – Coordinates streetlight maintenance, traffic signal operations, and other electrical infrastructure needs.
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Engineering – Plans, designs, and oversees infrastructure projects, including road improvements, stormwater management, and capital improvements.
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GIS (Geographic Information Systems) – Provides mapping and spatial analysis to support city planning, asset management, and public service operations.
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Public Works – Manages street maintenance, snow removal, leaf collection, and general upkeep of public spaces.
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Trash & Recycling – Oversees waste collection, recycling programs, and sustainability initiatives to promote responsible disposal and environmental stewardship.
Together, these divisions work to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable services for the Upper Arlington community.
Water Main Break Temporarily Closes Section of Reed Road
Columbus Public Utilities is on-site repairing a water main break in the 3900 block of Reed Road. As a result, Reed Road is closed in both directions between Lytham Road…
Columbia Gas Construction Projects
Columbia Gas is planning to undertake a series of major infrastructure upgrades in our community, tentatively scheduled to begin in the Spring of 2025. These upgrades include: The replacement of…
Trash & Recycling Pick-Up Delayed Due to Weather
Local Waste Services is not providing services on Monday, January 6, 2025, due to the weather. As a result, all waste and recycling pick-ups will be delayed by one day…
Snow Removal Plan Activated for Winter Storm
Public Service crews are hard at work to ensure roadways are safe and clear throughout Upper Arlington. Crews are diligently following the City’s snow removal plan to address the winter…
ELECTRICAL
The Electrical Division maintains the City’s streetlights, traffic signals, and public facility electrical systems, ensuring safety and efficiency. Responsibilities include managing 1,810 streetlights, 52 traffic signals, school and hazardous intersection flashers, and electrical systems for parks, pools, and key City facilities. The division also oversees the transition to energy-efficient LED lighting and maintains neighborhood streetlights to enhance community safety.
ENGINEERING
The Engineering Division is responsible for managing the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), overseeing design and construction projects within the City’s Right of Way (ROW). Annual programs include the Street Reconstruction Program, which focuses on reconstructing deteriorated streets, the Street Maintenance Program, which resurfaces streets in need of repair, and Sidewalk Maintenance, which inspects and replaces non-compliant sidewalks covering approximately 20% of the City each year. The division also manages the Sustainable Sewer Solutions project, which maintains sanitary sewer systems, and Waterline Replacement, which updates aging waterlines across the City. In addition to these ongoing projects, the division oversees larger-scale initiatives and supports City operations by reviewing commercial and residential developments to ensure compliance with City standards.
GIS
The Geographic Information System (GIS) Division manages and provides access to web-based interactive mapping tools that integrates various layers of geographic data for Upper Arlington. These tools allow users to view zoning classifications, aerial photos, city utilities, contour elevations, and historic district designations. The division also offers detailed, parcel-specific information, including archival reports and links to relevant documents and codes, supporting planning, development, and public inquiries.
PUBLIC WORKS
The Public Works Division plays a key role in maintaining the City’s infrastructure. The division is responsible for routine roadway repairs, curb repairs, street markings, wheelchair ramp repairs, and the installation and maintenance of street signage. It also handles snow removal, leaf collection, and storm damage cleanup to keep streets clear and accessible. In addition, the division oversees the maintenance of the sanitary sewer system, stormwater system, and fire hydrants. The Fleet Maintenance team ensures the City’s vehicles and equipment are properly serviced and operational to support public service operations.
TRASH & RECYCLING
The City’s Trash & Recycling Program is provided by Local Waste Services. It provides a simplified approach with a standard fee for service, billed twice a year. Trash, recycling, yard waste and bulk items are all collected as part of this fee. Local Waste provides all households with grey trash and blue recycling containers on wheels with lids. If a container becomes damaged, in most instances it will be repaired or replaced at no charge. The trucks used by Local Waste are energy-efficient, CNG vehicles, reducing their environmental impact on our community.