The recent blanket of snow may have some children excited and ready to build snowmen and go sledding.
But the grown-ups have to deal with driving in it, and city, county and state officials have to deal with the issue of snow removal and public safety.
Williston City Director of Public Works and Engineering Monte Meiers said they have most of the thoroughfares done, which have first priority. They will then try to take care of the commercial business streets.
“Part of the problem is what we did to open up some of the thoroughfares. We plowed them and so I don’t know if we can get them all done in one setting,” he said Tuesday afternoon. “It’s a question of how much we can get done Tuesday night,” Meiers said.
Once the thoroughfares are cleaned up, the crew will then go into residential areas. However, Meiers estimated the soonest that will be is Friday and a public service announcement will accompany that decision.
He added Williston hasn’t seen this much snow in a long time.
“The problem is it’s here so early and it’s gonna be problematic for the rest of the winter. Every time it blows, all these snow piles are gonna drift in and it’s gonna make it tough.”
He also mentioned the gritty material that can be seen littered on the streets. Every time they clean the street, they sand behind at the intersections because it gets so slick where the blades cut the snow and ice.
“That’s a mixture of about 7/10 percent salt with sand,” said Meiers, although he noted the salt part of the mix doesn’t work as well until the temperature gets closer to freezing.
As for driving in these conditions, North Dakota Highway Patrol Capt. Alan Billehus said it’s important for people to check the weather conditions by dialing 511 or checking the state Department of Transportation Web site before going anywhere to ensure safe traveling.
“That’s the best and fastest way to get road conditions,” he said.
He also warned to keep clear of maintenance vehicles.
“When you’re traveling, if you get around a snow plow, be patient, stay back away from the snow plow and let them do their job,” he said.
Also, be wary of changing road conditions.
“They can change from mile to mile,” he added. He also said “a good winter survival kit just in case you do end up in the ditch is pretty important.”
Although the Department of Transportation clears the roads as best they can, Billehus said people ultimately have the responsibility to drive with the conditions in mind.
Although Williams County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Earl Innis said people have reported cars and vehicles in ditches, there hasn’t been any severe accidents due to the latest storm.
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