Elizabethton Gears Up for Winter Weather!
As the temperature drops and the Winter Weather Advisory rolls in for Elizabethton and surrounding areas, the City is stepping up its game to ensure road safety. With the forecast predicting between 1 to 3 inches of snow and shivering wind chills hitting the 20s, the Street & Sanitation Department is already on high alert!
Ready, Set, Snow!
By Thursday morning, city trucks were already being outfitted with snow plows and salt spreaders, because when it snows, the Elizabethton team is ready to roll. Currently, the department has a staggering 1,100 tons of salt stored up, just waiting to be deployed on the roads. Doesn’t that just bring peace of mind?
Jeff Marlow, the Street & Sanitation Supervisor, and his partner Jamie Tolley explained their strategy. “Jamie and I will go out and check if roads are getting slick,” Jeff said. “Once it’s clear they need treatment, we’ll start calling in the team to manage the salt distribution.” With nineteen staff members on standby, this crew knows how to keep Elizabethton moving, all the way from Milligan Highway to U.S. Highway 19E.
What’s the Plan?
The approach is systematic: treat the main roads first and then work their way through the secondary streets. And, should you be concerned about those state roads? Don’t worry! The city has a partnership with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to handle about 14 miles of state roads in Elizabethton. The costs for salt and effort are submitted for reimbursement, ensuring that the city isn’t too bogged down financially.
Helpful Tips for Residents
If you want to help out the crew, Jeff and Jamie have a couple of friendly pointers. “Try to park your vehicles in your driveway,” suggests Jeff. “It really helps us move our trucks efficiently. When cars are parked on the street, navigating around them can be a challenge, especially on icy hills.” Jamie chimed in, adding, “It’s a lot more complicated than just driving in front of the truck. We have to be super cautious of vehicles trying to pass us, and sometimes we even need to switch off our salt spreaders to avoid damaging them.”
Challenges of Team Snow Removal
The Broad Street Bridge closure has also changed the game a bit. Crews are implementing a new strategy on West Elk Avenue, treating the roads more effectively in light of increased traffic. “Instead of plowing one side and turning around for the other, our salt spreader will now work down the middle in one pass,” explained Jeff. They used 56 tons of salt last winter, so they’re definitely familiar with the ups and downs of snow removal.
But let’s talk temperature for a hot second! Salt works best when it’s above 18 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why they revisit previously treated areas. Jeff reassured everyone, “Every street will be serviced, we promise!”
Safety First!
Now for the big takeaway: If you can, stay home during snowfall! This allows the snow removal crews to work efficiently without numerous distractions. And for those who must venture out, remember that state law requires you to keep a safe distance of 100 feet behind snowplows and salt trucks. It’s crucial for your safety and theirs!
So, Elizabethton, as we brace for this winter weather, rest easy knowing that your street teams are prepped and ready to keep our roads safe. Stay warm, and keep your snow boots handy!
