winter roads

[luckyleftyme2]

I borrowed this from another forum because it is something we all have to deal with:


Do people really demand dry roads or have some become accustomed to them? I would rather have salt and sand used and leave a little earlier to get to where I need to go. Studded tires help also.
well here is my take on it seeing as I live in the town that the original poster of this topic lives.
I was an assistant to the public works director at the time and here is the problem he faced.
Seems like the first snow flake that fell the police dept. was calling for salt and sand! this often leads to more slippery roads. If you wait till there is approx 2 inches on the road way and spread sand it often will keep the snow from packing-it gives it a mulching effect.(my thought let the police dept. call but use your judgment because your the one dealing with it. Of course you know the first thing treated is the business section of any town,they holler the loudest and influence the city manager!(who is your boss)
liquid de-icer has been used in this town since the early 80's,it is effective on heavy traveled roads when temps. are forecasted to plummet as the storm moves out. rock salt isn't very good below 15deg.
the roads are much safer today than when I was a youngster. you don't see cars with chains running around much anymore and usually the packed snow and ice are gone after a couple days.(remember the sun is your best friend in the winter after the storm)
I guess what I am saying is we need to slow down and limit our driving giving the crews that are paid for it take care of it. and the less chemicals they have to use the cheaper for us and the better for our health!