The city of Peoria Public Works fleet is all prepared for the first winter precipitation. Director Dave Barber says three brand new large snow plow trucks have been fitted, and the rest of the fleet is equipped also.
Barber says there are are 3 levels of attack plans the city has in place. Level One is a storm of less than 2 inches of snow. He says that is the bulk of weather the city receives. Most of the coverage consists of mostly salting with a little plowing of the main streets. Barber says the next two categories bring more complication.
Barber says the next catagory is a Level 2 which means snow has reached 2 inches. In that case, plowing begins with private contractors assisting city crews. A level 3 is likened to last February's major storm. Barber says as many private contractors as the city can find with heavy equipment is utilized along with regular city snow plowing staff.
Barber says salt is always in placed and being store. He says the sand contract is expected to be approved by the city council at Tuesday's meeting. Barber says with early retirements and budget cuts, there are 30 people available to treat and plow roads on 12 hour shifts if needed. More use of private contractors will make up the difference in city staff shortage.
