Last week's back-to-back snow storms, high winds and cold temperatures created extra work for city of Wayne employees, as well as those employed with Wayne County.
Street Planner Joel Hansen said that when snow falls, crews usually work an eight-hour shift from 4 a.m. to noon. However, during several days last week, crews were removing snow from city streets for up to 12 hours.
In addition to the four member street crew, snow removal is completed with help from four employees from the water department, members of the electric line crew and three employees with the park and recreation department. These people help clear the trails, parks and remove snow from the Library/Senior Center.
Hansen said as snow fall amounts continue to increase this winter, the city is having to find new spots to haul the snow from the streets. These include working with landowners outside city limits.
City crews were also faced with additional challenges as the city's large snow blower, which is used to blow the snow into city trucks to be hauled off the streets, broke down over the weekend. Parts were obtained and as of Tuesday evening, the machine was back in opperation.
"We haven't seen this kind of a snow and wind storm in a number of years and will have to continue to work to widen streets and make them safe for drivers," Hansen said.
As far as those moving snow in the county's three Commissioner Districts, Wayne County Highway Superintendent Kyle Huff shared information on the number of miles of roads in Wayne County that need to be cleared.
In Wayne County District 1, which includes the eastern portion of Wayne County, there are 266 miles of gravel roads. This district operates with seven maintainers, two payloaders and six full-time employees. The county commissioner also helps during snow removal.
Wayne County District 2, which includes the northwest portion of the county has 263 miles of gravel roads that are cleaned with seven maintainers, one payloader, six full-time employees plus the commissioner, who helps during snow removal.
Wayne County District 3, which includes the southwest portion of the county has 259 miles of gravel roads. These are cleared with six maintainers, one payloader, one tractor mounted snowblower, and five full-time employees plus the commissioner who helps during snow removal.
During snow removal, these crews begin work as soon as wind conditions allow and put in at least 8 hours a day. Roads are generally opened to allow traffic through and then crews go back over the area to widen the roads as time and conditions allow.
While the area was able to dig out from the last storm with slightly warmer temperatures mid-week, the forecast for the end of the week includes additional snowfall and sub-zero temperatures.
