New approach could help prevent ice and snowpack buildup in District roads

If Council approves it, we will see a more preemptive approach to battling snow and ice build up on District roads this winter. District Commissioner of Public Works Tony White says there’ll be increased surveillance of road conditions and an increase in pre-wetting salt before it’s applied to roads. This is because pre-wetted salt acts more quickly on ice and snowpack. The timing of the salting will also be changed – more of it will be applied before predicted snow/ice events in the hopes of heading off poor conditions. White says the new plan is partly a response to recent court cases in other areas, where judges ruled that meeting the minimum standards of the Municipal Act may not be enough for municipalities from a liability standpoint. The plan could be approved by Council July 21st.