We are currently receiving the first significant snowfall of the season for the lakeshore area.
Seehafer News spoke with Manitowoc County Highway Commissioner Greg Grotegut prior to the snow about something to keep in mind.
“The rain coming ahead of this storm is going to take off the brine that we had for the previous snowstorm so that’s going to be all washed off,” he said. “So, take your time until our guys get back out there and treat the roads again.”
Grotegut explains that brine buys them time until crews can get out there.
He said, “Obviously our crews can’t be everywhere at once when we start getting precipitation. It buys us time and keeps the roads ice-free until we can put that application of salt down and keep the driving public safe.”
Also, when snowplows are present, Grotegut issued this reminder about the number of feet that motorists must stay behind the plows.
“At least 250 feet is what drivers should be behind a snowplow,” he said.“Give our guys room (because) those are big trucks and they turn around in intersections. They can’t see everything and they can’t see the best out the windows when they have their wings up. Give our operators some room when you see a plow truck. Keep your distance.”
As for the amount of equipment at his disposal, Grotegut says they have about 26 trucks to clear snow from a mix of state and county routes when in full force.
He added I-43 is monitored 24/7 and consists of four routes itself.
Like everyone else, the highway commissioner said his department is also affected by inflation, including the fact that the price per ton of salt has increased $10 over last year along with higher equipment costs and trying to keep their trucks on the road.
To see the list of cancelations and delays, visit SeehaferNews.com.
