SPOKANE, Wash. — Winter weather is here, and snow removal crews are ready to tackle the season’s challenges.
This year, Spokane County crews are using a new tool to improve efficiency: the “Shark Bit” blade.
According to Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) these innovative blades are being installed on every truck and are designed to cut through wet, compacted snow more effectively than traditional flat blades.
“These shark bits are really great at removing which allows de-icing products to work its way through so that we can then remove the snow,” said Kyle Twohig, Director of Public Works.
Spokane County is responsible for clearing 5,100 miles of roadways. To do so, the county has deployed 38 snowplows and sanders, 34 graders, and 4 de-icing trucks to combat winter weather.
“We’ve got 3,600 lane miles, over 100 pieces of snow fighting equipment,” said Overton. “We have coverage on our roads basically 24/7,” said Overton.
Overton of WSDOT explains that their equipment can clear and treat two lanes at once, but their de-icing strategy depends on weather forecasts.
“You don’t want to necessarily treat a road at night when temperatures are continuing to dip into the teens and twenties. Because the material they put out is just going to freeze,” said Overton.
WSDOT has also added bright green lights to its trucks to enhance visibility in snowstorms, improving safety for drivers and workers.
Snowplows move at 35 miles per hour to ensure effective snow removal, as going any faster can lead to less efficient work.
As always, drivers are encouraged to allow extra time for travel in winter conditions.
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