County orders motor grader to expand winter operations, crews push asphalt projects

Jefferson County commissioners authorized purchase of a new motor grader to expand winter and road-maintenance capacity and received an update on paving activity.

The board voted in favor of buying a Caterpillar 140 all-wheel-drive motor grader for $404,007. Road and Bridge staff had compared Cat and John Deere quotes and recommended the Cat 140 based on price and operator familiarity; staff said the grader is intended to provide an additional blade out West to meet snow and grading needs and to be funded in part by impact-fee money. A motion to approve the purchase passed on roll-call vote.

Why it matters: The new grader will be added to the county's fleet ahead of winter and is intended to reduce turnover and equipment downtime during snow operations. Staff said the 140 model performs well and that joysticks and operator comfort were considered in the selection.

Paving update: Road crews reported active paving work to place approximately $450,000 worth of asphalt before the end of the budget year, including work on 100 North between 4500 East and 4200 East. Staff said adverse weather caused short delays but anticipated restarting once conditions allowed; they also discussed using larger trucks and pup trailers to increase haul efficiency.

Discussion versus decision: The grader purchase was approved; no policy changes were made regarding paving approaches. Road staff will follow up on equipment delivery and paving scheduling.

Ending note: Staff said continued equipment purchases and hauling strategy adjustments are intended to improve winter response and long-term pavement condition.