As a significant snow and ice storm approaches Saline County, local officials are preparing to ensure roads remain as safe and accessible as possible. Brent Buchwald, Street Superintendent, outlined the city's planned response to the forecasted weather event during a conversation with Salina311. The storm is expected to begin late on January 4th.
As of 10:30 AM on January 3rd, the decision has been made to pre-treat all roads with salt to minimize the impact of ice and snow. This proactive measure aims to enhance road safety ahead of the storm.
Once the storm arrives, the city's response will involve 13 teams working in 12-hour shifts around the clock. These teams, composed of 30 dedicated individuals, will focus on clearing and treating roadways to ensure safe travel conditions.
The amount of salt used will vary depending on the storm's severity and duration. Buchwald estimates that the city will use between 300 tons and 700 tons of salt over the course of the storm to combat ice and snow accumulation depending on the severity and how long the winter storm lasts.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and exercise caution if travel is necessary during the storm. The city’s efforts aim to minimize disruption and prioritize safety for all road users.