After this weekend’s snowstorm, Pittsburgh residents voiced frustration over road conditions.
The City of Pittsburgh is now responding to the criticism.
Bill Crean, Deputy Director of the Department of Public Works, tells KDKA Radio the weekend storm brought some equipment and staffing challenges for crews.
“Our heavy equipment division was working around the clock,” said Crean, adding “we tried to get as many trucks on the road as possible.”
There were also some staffing issues, admits Crean.
“It’s a voluntary overtime so, some employees chose to refuse or did not come in.”
Crean also says the city’s aging fleet has been a concern, making it harder for crews to keep up with the heavy snow.
“As the storm wore on, things happen, hoses break, plow blades wear out, trucks have to go in for some repair and that’s why we asked our vendor to work over the weekend and we opened up our heavy equipment shop over the weekend,” said Crean.
Crean also says it’s up to motorists to do their part.
“You need to be responsible motorists too, you need to have snow tires on, the public needs to hold up their end too,” said Crean. We’re doing our best.”
Despite all of that, he says the city’s streets are now about 95 percent treated. When asked to grade the city’s snow response, Crean offered his own assessment.
“I’m very proud of the work our people did from our management all the way down to the boots on the ground, we did what we could with what we had,” said Crean.
The City of Pittsburgh released a second snow removal update Monday afternoon:
Pittsburgh, PA - As of Monday, December 15, a majority of city streets have been treated. While the majority of the streets have received salt treatment, many will also need plowed as well. However, due to the nature of this weekend’s storm, with 9 inches of snow plus zero-degree temperatures, multiple passes with a plow may be required to clear the street. In some instances, streets may not be cleared to the pavement at this time. Today, public works crews began addressing side streets, alleyways, and residential roadways that had not been addressed thus far.
Since the onset of the storm Saturday, December 13, 40 trucks have come in for maintenance, and 33 trucks have been returned to service. Winter weather operations began on Saturday with 61 trucks and 16 reserve units. We are now at 57 trucks and 13 reserve units. At the onset of the season in mid-November, we started with 70 trucks and 18 reserve units.
“When the weather is at its worst, our crews are at their best,” said Chris Hornstein, Director of the Department of Public Works. “Through long hours, frigid temperatures, and challenging conditions, they’ve shown an unwavering commitment to the city. We will continue working until Pittsburgh’s streets are as clear and safe as possible.”
Public Works crews will continue working winter weather operations during regular hours until roadways are passable or cleared. Our current estimation is that the entire City will return to bare pavement by Wednesday afternoon.