The Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) owns and operates 5 active maintenance yards and other properties throughout the county. As part of our commitment to being good stewards and community partners, the WCRC has developed pollution incident prevention plans for each of its yards.
In addition, WCRC is an active member of the Community Partners for Clean Streams (CPCS) in Washtenaw County. Community Partners for Clean Streams is a voluntary, cooperative effort between the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner's Office and Washtenaw County businesses, institutional landowners and multi-family residential complexes. The goal of the program is to help identify practical, cost effective ways to protect Washtenaw County waterways through pollution prevention. CPCS is a cost-free initiative that provides information, technical advice and recognition to participants.
In March of 2009, WCRC received final approval of participation and a Certificate of Recognition for the Road Commission’s considerable effort in completing the requirements of this program.
Other Pollution Prevention Measures by WCRC:
- Fleet Maintenance – regular maintenance and calibration of fleet of 150 vehicles to reduce emissions, fuel consumption, eliminate drips, reduce the use of salt.
- No Idle Policy – Implemented in 2008, this policy aims to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
- Snow Event Pre-wetting of salt on pavement surfaces – to minimize the use of road salt.
- Street Sweeping Program – biannual program aims to reduce silt and debris infiltration into the storm sewer system.
- Catch Basin Cleaning Program – Annual program aims to reduce silt and debris infiltration into the storm sewer system and keep system functioning properly.
- Energy Audits – Aims to reduce energy usage and seek ways to improve facility functions.
- Tier Emissions Equipment Replacement Policy – aims to replace aging equipment with updated emissions reduction compliant equipment.
- Membership with Ann Arbor and Detroit Area Clean Cities Coalition