Weather predictions this week include snow in the forecast for some parts of Michigan, so it will not be long before Washtenaw County residents begin to see those first snowflakes start to fall. Yet, motorists traveling on Washtenaw County roads can rest assured because the Road Commission is already prepared for the coming winter season.
This past October, Operations road crews were busy cleaning their vehicles and making any necessary repairs to be sure their equipment is in tip-top shape for the “Winter Dry Run” inspections that take place annually at the Road Commission. Additionally, the Road Commission is stockpiling salt and sand for the upcoming winter months, and Operations supervisors and crews have been reviewing plow routes and designating priorities. Individual snowstorms are monitored and tracked by the Operations Department, utilizing the U.S. Weather Service and weather-related Internet sites.
“The Washtenaw County Road Commission is responsible for providing winter maintenance on approximately 2,200 miles of roads within the county, outside of the cities and villages. These roads include freeways and state trunklines, hard surfaced and soft surfaced roads, and public subdivision streets,” explained Jim Harmon, Director of Operations.
“By performing our early winter readiness planning and inspections, we can be better assured that our road crews will be able to implement an efficient and effective snow and ice removal response for the motoring public when the heavy snowfalls finally arrive.”
Last season, (2006/2007), the Road Commission responded to winter maintenance on 48 occasions and used 15,400 tons of salt and 5,500 tons of sand. Typically, the Road Commission uses approximately 20,000 tons of salt per year; however, the agency will be well prepared for the forthcoming wintry months no matter how heavy or light the snow and ice accumulation. (Q & A's about Winter Maintenance)
As we all know, the winter season brings with it the challenges of driving in adverse conditions, therefore, the Washtenaw County Board of Road Commissioners, Wesley Prater (Chair), Fred Veigel (Vice-Chair) and David Rutledge (Member), would also like to take this opportunity to remind motorists that ensuring your safe passage as you travel the roadways in Washtenaw County is the foremost concern of the Road Commission.
“Safe travel is our primary concern for you and your families, and you can help us meet the challenge by SLOWING DOWN. With your cooperation, we will keep you going this winter season,” stated Managing Director Steve Puuri.
The most important thing to remember about winter driving…
“As the operators of large snow removal vehicles, our Road Commission drivers are highly trained and experienced in driving during hazardous weather conditions,” explained Puuri.
“Therefore, we would like to ask motorists in advance to drive cautiously, take it slow, and give our winter maintenance crews plenty of room on the roads, so they can accomplish their work promptly and efficiently. With your patience and support, we can help to ensure that everyone is able to travel safely on Washtenaw County’s roads this winter.”
“And you can help us to reduce the risk of someone becoming the victim of a winter-related road accident by driving safely, remaining alert, and by providing plenty of time to stop for other motorists. By keeping mindful of safe winter driving techniques you can arrive safely to your destination. Remember, the life you save may be more than your own…it may be that of your family, friends, neighbors…or the winter maintenance crews who work long, strenuous hours to maintain a reasonably safe and convenient road system in Washtenaw County.”
“As always, the Washtenaw County Road Commission is committed to making this a safe winter driving season for everyone,” added Puuri.
Contact
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