by Lorraine Masonheimer

Buried by several feet of snow during the 2006-07 blizzards, Douglas County is beefing up its operations to improve snow removal for blizzards and typical snowstorms.

After last winter’s record-setting blizzards affected transportation and neighborhood access for several weeks, deep snow coupled with icepack led the County to modify its snow removal operations plan.

Douglas County has added two equipment operators assigned to the most densely populated residential areas—especially in cul-de-sacs. Two additional front-end loaders were purchased earlier this year giving the County greater maneuverability in residential areas. During heavy snow storms, private contractors will be utilized, increasing personnel and equipment as needed.

In time for the 2007 snow season, the County will implement new technologies to improve flexibility within the system. It will equip its operations center with an Automated Vehicle Locator (AVL) system designed to route personnel and equipment efficiently and meet changing weather conditions. Private contractors should have the AVS system in place later this year.

For more information on the County’s winter procedures and plow routes, go to www.douglas.co.us/publicworks/operations/Snow_and_Ice_Removal.html. For now, enjoy the respite from the snow and enjoy the sunshine.