There are always problems on my street (last one plowed, not yet plowed, plowed hours ago, etc.). Why don’t you clear it up sooner and keep it clear?

Because of the magnitude of main roads assigned, plow drivers frequently cannot get to every high traffic area before conditions deteriorate. And in particularly bad conditions (e.g., high snowfall rate), plow drivers may not even be able to keep up. In spite of continuous attention to their routes, conditions will deteriorate quickly between passes. Especially in these cases, the residential areas can expect to receive less attention until the storm lets up. As a result, the final condition of the residential areas may be worse than the main roads.

During storm events, the two-way radio is continuously monitored at the Public Works Department to communicate with the drivers. The Police and Communication Center monitor the same radio frequency and communicate with the PW Department as necessary. Thus, if a special need arises, drivers can be vectored in to spot treat the location. There have been cases when drivers have been pulled off their route(s) to aid another driver in such circumstances. Obviously, if this occurs, the assisting drivers will get behind in their own route(s).

Equipment is well maintained and operated, however, breakdowns do occur. Because of the number of trucks on the road during major events, it is typical that one or more will breakdown during the course of a long storm event. In these cases plowing delays are inevitable, and can be large depending on the magnitude of the equipment problem(s) and whether the unit can be repaired and return to its route.

Also, drivers need reasonable time to eat meals. Drivers seek opportune times to eat, if storm conditions allow, so that route conditions suffer as little as possible. In extended storms, drivers will need down time to rest. Drivers will typically not rest unless the event exceeds 36 hours, opting rather to stay on their routes to keep up with the storm. 

Show All Answers

1. If the Township knew the storm was coming, why wasn't more done to prepare and clear the roads earlier?
2. Who is responsible to clear snow and ice on the State roads?
3. Why are Forks Township roads in bad shape compared to other Townships?
4. There are always problems on my street (last one plowed, not yet plowed, plowed hours ago, etc.). Why don’t you clear it up sooner and keep it clear?
5. Why do the plow trucks have to drive so fast?
6. Why are the plows still out if there's no snow on the road? Are workers trying to collect overtime?
7. Why did the plow truck come through my road so many times?
8. Why was there was still ice and snow on the road after you got done plowing?
9. Why use road salt?
10. Why is the driver putting down too much/not enough salt?
11. Why do you have to plow curb to curb?
12. I already finished shoveling my driveway, and that plow truck came by again and plowed me in! Why is snow piled in my driveway? Will the Township remove the snow from the end of my driveway?
13. I live on a cul-de-sac and I get more snow in my driveway and on my property than anywhere else in town. Why?
14. Can I pay the Township to clear my driveway or sidewalk?
15. Who is responsible for clearing in front of my mailbox?
16. The large piles of snow at the corners of my street are so high I can't see oncoming traffic. Who is responsible for removing the snow?
17. The catch basin on my street is covered with snow. Who is responsible to clear it?
18. My street is so narrow that 2 cars cannot pass side by side. What will be done?
19. How do I report that the plow truck knocked over my mailbox and what will be done about it?
20. The plow damaged my property, home, or driveway. How do I report this and what will be done about it?
21. My basketball hoop [or other object at my property] was damaged by the plow. What will be done about it?
22. How do I report plow damage?
23. Will my garbage be collected during bad weather?
24. What can I do to help?