Snow removal response times may increase due to operator shortage

Plowing roads may take longer this winter due to a shortage of snowplow operators.

Washington County’s road-crew staff is down by about 25%. Transportation agencies nationwide are facing similar staff shortages and are struggling to hire qualified plow drivers.

As a result, plowing and sanding may take longer when winter storms hit. Crews will focus on plowing priority routes first. These include major corridors and routes most used by emergency services.

“Though we may not be able to match the level of service that we’ve achieved in the past, we are prepared to work around the clock to clear and sand roads,” said Keith Lewis, Operations Superintendent.

Throughout November new and experienced crew members have prepared for winter weather by driving snowplows on priority routes.

“We ask travelers to be patient and take precautions if they must use the roads during wintery conditions,” said Todd Watkins, Operations and Maintenance Division Manager. “Our crews will be hard at work.”