When something isn’t working right in Tucker — like a broken sidewalk, a clogged storm drain, a missing street sign — it often falls to the City’s Public Works Department to address it. But how does that process actually work, and how can you help get things fixed?
What Public Works Does
Tucker’s Public Works Department, created in July of 2023 with the support of 75% of voters, is responsible for maintaining the city’s infrastructure — everything from potholes and pavement markings to traffic signage and stormwater systems. They also handle a significant amount of mowing, right-of-way maintenance, and tree trimming in public spaces. Work orders are generally addressed on a first-in, first-out basis, unless the issue poses a public safety risk.
How the CID Partners with Public Works
Over the summer, the Tucker-Northlake Community Improvement District (CID) identified and submitted over 100 issues to Public Works — ranging from broken curbs to obstructed street signs. The CID conducts regular field assessments and works closely with city staff to ensure that high-priority concerns are identified and submitted for repair. In some cases, the CID has provided before-and-after photos to help illustrate the impact of completed fixes.
CID Executive Director Matthew Lee noted:
“We view Public Works as a key partner in maintaining basic functionality in the CID. Part of our role is to help surface problems that affect safety, mobility, and perception, and advocate for their resolution. It may seem small but hundreds of minor fixes are adding up to big changes for the community.”
How You Can Submit an Issue
Residents and business owners are encouraged to submit issues directly through the City’s Public Works portal at:
https://www.tuckerga.gov/submit-a-public-works-request/
Prefer to talk to someone? Call 678-597-9040. Be sure to include the property address and a clear description of the issue. If it’s an emergency or involves immediate danger, call 911.
Setting Expectations
The department operates on an annual budget determined during the City’s fiscal planning process. Urgent safety issues are prioritized, but most items are addressed in order of receipt, depending on available funding and staffing capacity. The online reporting system also allows you to upload photos, which can be extremely helpful in documenting and explaining an issue.
What Isn’t a Public Works Issue?
Not everything submitted gets a response — and that’s often because it falls outside the scope of Public Works. Examples include:
- Code enforcement matters (e.g., overgrown private lots, illegal signage)
- Building maintenance on private property
- Water or sewer problems (handled by DeKalb County Watershed)
- Sanitation (residential and commercial trash collection)
The decision to add Public Works as a city service wasn’t meant to fix every problem — but it is making a difference. Remember, you are the eyes and ears of the community. When you see something, take a moment to pass it on.
Your voice matters — and your input keeps Tucker moving in the right direction.