Transportation updates snow removal operations in Tahoe Basin amid staffing challenges

In a recent El Dorado County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Board meeting, the Department of Transportation presented a comprehensive update on snow removal operations, highlighting both current challenges and future plans. The meeting, held on May 13, 2025, coincided with ongoing snowfall, making the discussion particularly timely.

Brian Mullins, Deputy Director of Maintenance and Operations, outlined the geographical division of snow removal responsibilities between the Western Slope and the Tahoe Basin. The Tahoe Basin is further segmented into ten zones, with staffing requirements varying by area. For effective snow removal, the South Lake Tahoe day shift requires 12 staff members, while the night shift needs 11, and the West Shore Tahoma area requires three.

Currently, South Lake Tahoe has 18 full-time highway maintenance worker positions, but a staffing shortage of eight positions has been identified, with four full-time roles open at the Shikori facility. The department has struggled to fill extra help snow removal positions, with only eight of the allocated ten positions filled last year. This shortage impacts the department's ability to meet its goal of clearing roads within 24 to 48 hours after a storm, depending on staffing levels and storm severity.

Mullins reported that the past winter season concluded with six extra help snow removal workers, who received a cash incentive to encourage participation. The department utilized rental loaders and reported no catastrophic equipment failures, although some machinery is notably outdated, with several pieces dating back to the 1970s and early 2000s.

Looking ahead, the department plans to recruit for extra help positions in June and July, aiming for a November start date. Additionally, they will secure snow rental houses in Tahoma and South Lake Tahoe to address staffing challenges. A new mountain blower is on order, expected to arrive in October, with hopes of avoiding tariffs that could affect costs.

This update underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Department of Transportation in maintaining effective snow removal operations in El Dorado County, particularly in the Tahoe Basin. The staffing shortages and aging equipment highlight the need for continued investment and recruitment efforts to ensure public safety and accessibility during winter weather conditions.