New Port Richey Kicks Off Summer with Touch-a-Truck and Hurricane Expo
Published on April 17, 2025
New Port Richey Kicks Off Summer with Touch-a-Truck and Hurricane Expo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Port Richey, April 17, 2025 — The City of New Port Richey is welcoming summer with an expanded version of the New Port Richey Public Library’s annual Touch-a-Truck event. This family-friendly tradition, designed to spark excitement for the Summer Library Challenge, will now include the City’s Hurricane Expo, offering vital preparedness resources and expert guidance ahead of storm season.
The Library’s Touch-a-Truck event has become synonymous with the start of summer, and gives families an opportunity to explore firetrucks, police vehicles, and other large service vehicles up close. Inside and outside the Library, guests can enjoy food trucks, face painting, hands-on activities, giveaways, and more! It is also a great opportunity to register for the Summer Library Challenge, which keeps readers of all ages engaged throughout the summer.
The Hurricane Expo will provide critical information on storm preparedness, featuring a presentation by a meteorologist, safety tips, and a variety of vendors offering resources to help residents protect their homes and families. After the city’s recent experiences with Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the event serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preparation and community resilience.
Jennifer Hubbard, Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service, will deliver presentations at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. inside City Hall. These sessions will offer valuable insights into storm forecasting, emergency alerts, and how residents can stay informed and safe during hurricane season.
With interactive experiences, learning opportunities, and summer fun for all ages, this year’s event is larger than ever. Whether you’re here to explore emergency vehicles, receive expert advice on hurricane readiness, or sign up for the Library’s Summer Challenge, there is something for everyone.
“This event has always been a great way to bring the community together and build excitement for our summer programs and events,” said Andi Figart, Director at the New Port Richey Public Library. “With the addition of the Hurricane Expo, we’re also giving families the opportunity to learn about storm preparedness in a fun and engaging way.”
This free event will take place on Saturday, May 31st, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall and the Library (5919 Main St, New Port Richey, FL 34652). Parking will be limited, and attendees are encouraged to park in the City Parking Garage (6218 US-19, New Port Richey, FL 34652) and take advantage of the DART (Downtown Area Roundabout Trolley), which provides free, handicap-accessible transportation.
For more information about the Touch-a-Truck event or Library Summer Challenge, please contact Matthew Ortman, Library Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, at (727) 853-1275 or ortmanm@cityofnewportrichey.org.
All inquiries about the Hurricane Expo can be directed to Erik Jay, Code Enforcement Supervisor, at (727) 232-8928 or jaye@cityofnewportrichey.org.
About the New Port Richey Public Library:
Since 1920, the New Port Richey Public Library has served as a hub for learning, creativity, and connection in the community. From in-person programs to online resources, the library is committed to enriching lives through access to knowledge and opportunity. To learn more, visit www.nprlibrary.org.
About the City of New Port Richey:
With a strong local government, an attractive historical downtown, and a unique riverfront landscape, New Port Richey is one of Florida’s best walkable, waterfront, historic hometowns. For more information, visit www.citynpr.org.