The Town of Concord's Public Works Commission held a meeting on November 13, 2024, focusing on the annual winter maintenance overview presented by Highway and Grounds Superintendent Aaron McClosko. The meeting highlighted the town's strategies and preparations for the upcoming winter season, emphasizing public safety and efficient resource management.

McClosko outlined the town's winter maintenance policy, which aims to keep streets, sidewalks, and parking lots safe and passable for both pedestrians and emergency vehicles. He noted that the approach to each winter storm varies based on conditions, with public safety being the top priority. Last winter, Concord experienced nine winter response events, which was lower than average, resulting in total expenses of approximately $614,177 for winter maintenance.

The presentation detailed the planning process that begins in the summer, including the procurement of services and equipment, route evaluations, and employee training. The town operates 22 plow routes and utilizes a mix of town employees and contractors to manage snow removal and de-icing operations. McClosko emphasized the importance of communication and coordination with other departments, including public safety and facilities, to ensure effective responses to winter weather.

A significant technological advancement discussed was the Road Weather Information System (ROAS), which provides real-time data on road conditions, helping the town optimize its winter maintenance strategies. This system allows for better decision-making regarding resource deployment and treatment methods, ultimately enhancing roadway safety.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the challenges faced during winter operations, including staffing and meeting community expectations. McClosko acknowledged the need for ongoing training for new employees and the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with effective service delivery.

Overall, the meeting underscored Concord's commitment to maintaining safe and accessible roadways during winter months, utilizing both traditional methods and innovative technology to enhance public safety and operational efficiency.