November 2, 2022 |
WYDOT announced Tuesday that it remains committed to keeping Wyoming roads open this winter despite challenges from supply chain shortages and a lack of manpower in some areas of the state, including Carbon County. If storms are severe or prolonged, plowing operations could be impacted.
In a release from the state highway department, officials acknowledge that staffing levels are at the point where widespread winter storms may impact plowing efforts to levels below what is indicated on the Snowplow Priority Plan. WYDOT’s Snowplow Priority Plan prioritizes plowing operations on the state’s busiest highways, like Interstate 80, before rural routes.
Like many other industries, WYDOT has experienced challenges with recruiting and retaining personnel, especially snowplow operators, mechanics, and troopers.
Crews currently seeing the most severe staffing shortages include Shirley Basin and Muddy Gap here in Carbon County. Other areas in the state where WYDOT staffing levels are below average include Rock Springs, Hulett, LaBarge, Reno Junction and Patrick Draw, among others.
Because of the shortage, motorists may experience increased winter hazards like ice and drifting snow in these areas this winter, especially during heavy, multi-day storms. Road shoulders may not get plowed immediately and crews may have to get to clean-up work the next day. As in recent years, WYDOT will move crews around to fill-in as needed.
Parts for snowplows and trooper vehicles are also becoming increasingly backordered and delayed, which can prolong the time vehicles are in the shop rather than on the roads.
If you’ve never packed along a winter emergency kit in your car for a road trip, this would be the year to start.
Meanwhile, WYDOT is hiring snowplow operators, dispatchers, Troopers, mechanics, and other positions statewide.
Photo courtesy of WYDOT.
