Pierce County road crews know it’s only a matter of time before they will be fighting ice and snow again. They recently completed equipment testing and refresher training to be ready when the first storm hits.

County resources for managing snow and ice are sized to handle average winter storms, which in western Washington can be sporadic and unpredictable. During heavy storms, resources are directed toward clearing the high volume arterials and life-line routes that connect residential areas to highways, freeways, and key service centers. Once crews are caught up on these essential routes, they move into residential areas as needed.

This year, an additional contingency plan has been added. In the event that road crews are short staffed during a major storm due to an outbreak of the flu, licensed commercial driver employees from other county departments are being trained so they can assist with road clearing efforts if needed.

Road Operations’ 24-hour response line is 253-798-6000.