Post Falls crew accidentally grows giant pumpkin

 An unexpected attraction has taken root at Post Falls City Hall: a massive pumpkin.

The streets division planted it on a whim at their Seltice Way site, where it grew throughout the summer. Public Works Maintenance Manager Ross Junkin expressed surprise at the pumpkin's size, noting that no special care was given.

"There really wasn't much effort put into growing it. We just planted it, and the existing sprinkler system kept it watered through the summer," Junkin said.

Recreation Manager Traci Stevenson described the pumpkin as "hefty" but kept its exact weight under wraps for an upcoming contest.

"We are so excited to have the pleasure to display a lot of hard work and great gardening skills," Stevenson said.

Post Falls is inviting the public to guess the pumpkin's weight. A box will be placed near the gourd for contest entries.

For perspective, the world record for the heaviest pumpkin, grown in Minnesota, exceeded 2,700 pounds.

City officials hope to boost fall foot traffic as residents submit their guesses before the pumpkin's weight is revealed on Halloween, Thursday, Oct. 31.

    The streets division for the City of Post Falls grew a giant pumpkin.