Warwick Village DPW wins Build a Better Mousetrap Competition

The New York State Local Technical Assistance Program (NYSLTAP) hosted by the Cornell Local Roads Program recognized the Village of Warwick Department of Public Works as the first-place winner in the 2026 Build a Better Mousetrap Competition.

The department earned top honors for its innovative creation, The FinBar and FinBar Mini, invented by Assistant DPW Supervisor Village of Warwick DPW Mike Finelli, is a simple yet highly effective tool designed to improve the safety and efficiency of opening manhole lids while reducing labor demands and costs.

Traditionally, lifting heavy manhole covers often required two workers and significant physical effort. The FinBar allows a single employee to safely and efficiently complete the task, increasing productivity while freeing additional staff for other essential work. The tool also minimizes the need for awkward and potentially hazardous lifting methods, such as wedging shovels beneath covers helping reduce the risk of strains, pinched fingers, and other workplace injuries.

“The Build a Better Mousetrap Competition highlights innovation at the local level,” said David Orr, director of the NYSLTAP Center – Cornell Local Roads Program. “The 2026 entries showcased an impressive range of creative solutions developed by highway and public works departments across New York State.”

The Build a Better Mousetrap Competition is a statewide contest that recognizes creative and cost-effective solutions developed by highway and public works professionals to solve everyday operational challenges. Entries are judged on cost, implementation, transferability, and the significance of the problem solved.

Mayor Michael Newhard praised Mike Finelli and the Department of Public Works for their achievement.

”This award reflects the creativity, professionalism, and dedication of our Department of Public Works. Mike’s innovation solved a real-world problem, improved safety for our employees, and demonstrates the kind of practical ingenuity that makes local government work better. We are proud to see the Village of Warwick recognized on a statewide level.”

This marks another significant accomplishment for Finelli, whose innovative ideas have been recognized multiple times through the Build a Better Mousetrap program. Previous honors include recognition in 2022, a Second Place award and First Place in the People’s Choice category in 2024, and an Honorable Mention in 2025.