Ground Control: District crews poised and ready for winter; New road sensors installed

The days are shorter, temperatures are dropping and while we settle down to spend more time inside, District of Squamish Operations crews are equipped and ready to tackle the elements at any given moment. It may feel like winter has just arrived, but crews have long been preparing for the busy season ahead, along with whatever weather surprises it might have in store.

This year, crews installed new road temperature sensors to help anticipate “flashover conditions”, a condition that occurs when the road becomes colder than the air and the rain freezes. These temperature sensors are connected to the District’s SCADA (Supervisory, Control and Data Acquisition) system which sends an alarm to staff when the road temperatures are approaching freezing level. The SCADA system is monitored by the District 24/7.

Suzanne Virgint, the Operations Supervisor in charge of Roads and Drainage with the District of Squamish explains that preparations for winter begin in the fall when the potential for storms begins. Water levels within the District are monitored continuously.

“Storms can creep up on you,” Virgint says. “We’re consistently maintaining our roads, ensuring catch basins and culverts are clear, maintaining our dikes and pumps and servicing our vehicles.”

Night crews began their shifts in mid-November to ensure 24-hour coverage in anticipation of the potential for freezing roads as a result of cooler temperatures.

“We’re always on high alert to make sure our town remains safe for the community. Our ground crews are taking care of overpasses, sidewalks in front of municipal property, bus stops and pedestrian curbs around the clock to prevent icy, dangerous conditions,” Virgint says.

To anticipate freezing levels and prevent snow from accumulating on the roads, the District pre-treats the roads using salt brine, a liquid salt and water solution. This allows crews to stay ahead of the storm, use less product and help keep the roads more clear. Crew members are also required to undergo two days of snow and ice control training.

In the event of a snowstorm, priority routes for emergency vehicles and public transportation routes such as bus routes and school zones are cleared first, followed by business areas, civic buildings and access to residential properties. Residents, property owners and business owners are reminded that they are responsible for keeping their own sidewalks clear of snow.

“We very much appreciate the support, cooperation and patience we receive from the community when it snows,” says Virgint. “Obviously, when snow falls it blankets everything at once. We could never have enough staff and vehicles on standby 24/7 to address all areas at once. The cleanup takes time and is prioritized. Community support is integral to the effort.”

To ensure quick access for emergency vehicles, transit and residents, the District snow plows open up the roads with a first pass and return later to widen them, ensuring proper drainage. Again, patience from the community is appreciated as District crews work hard to clear the streets, which may result in driveways being plowed in more than once during storm cleanup.

Supervisory staff are on call 24/7 throughout the winter months. Residents are encouraged to call the Connections Call Centre 24 hours a day to report any issues at 604.815.4040. Additional information and tips regarding snow and ice control is available on our website.

December 17, 2015