SOUTHWICK – As the town continues to clean up from last week’s snowstorm, another is headed this way.
Department of Public Works Director Randy Brown said crews have been working to clear the streets and make way for vehicles, pedestrians – and more snow.
“For the past several days we’ve been out on the roads widening them and increasing the line of sight,” said Brown.
Brown said he has received numerous calls from residents requesting the DPW clear their neighborhood.
“We are making our way from one side of town to the other,” Brown said. “We just ask that everyone be patient because we are working on addressing these issues.”
Brown said the town’s sand and salt supply have been filled and crews are ready for the next wave of winter weather headed to westen Mass. this weekend.
“We received another shipment of salt and the shed is full,” he said.
At the start of the season Brown was concerned about the availability and cost of salt. A global shortage drove the price up and increased demand.
“We have been using quite a bit of salt and sand, especially at night, but we have been able to keep up the supply,” he said.
As far as the sand and salt budget, Brown said the town has already exceeded its $111,000 budget, which is typical.
Winter road clearing is one of few budget items the state allows to operate on a deficit. The DPW annually requests a transfer of funds at the end of the season to cover costs.
“When we address the town’s street needs, we don’t look at the budget,” said Brown. “We do what we have to do to keep the roads clear and residents safe.”
Brown said the DPW crews work best when residents stay off the streets during storm clean up.
“If people do not need to be out, it’s best for them to stay off the roads and we will get to you as soon as we can,” he said.
The DPW was also busy Friday repairing a water main break on College Highway that caused Southwick Town Hall to close early along with another 10 businesses that were without water for several hours.
