Lexington’s revised snow plan ready to roll when needed
Originally published by WEKU.
Although November in the Bluegrass has been fairly moderate so far, the weather situation is expected to change the next few days. And that could involve some light snow. The City of Lexington is implementing a revised snow removal plan for the winter season. Streets and Roads Director Rob Allen said optimization study recommendations resulted in better use of staff and time.
“This is reduced windshield time, driving back and forth to pick up loads of salt and it has made us more efficient. We get to certain areas a little faster. Our actual completion time is projected to reduce by this being more efficient,” said Allen.
Allen noted these changes won’t mean expanding service areas in the short term. He added it could happen over time. Allen said it didn’t change what gets treated, but how it gets treated.
Substantial and environmentally friendly storage of salt remains a key facet of keeping roads clear during snow events. A domed salt barn on a closed landfill site in Lexington creates about a 50% boost in on-hand salt. And Streets and Roads Director Rob Allen said that helps when there are delivery hiccups.
“If we have a big snowfall, we’re not ordering more salt, waiting on delivery or if the Ohio River freezes and barges can’t get the salt to the rail terminals and so we’re pretty excited about that,” said Allen.
Securing enough drivers for City snow plows has been challenging in recent years. While Streets and Roads has been short by as much as 20% in the past, Allen said the driver numbers are about 10% short this year.
** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.
Originally published by WEKU.
Republished with permission.
