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City to pursue Ohio EPA H2Ohio grant to expand brine systems and reduce road salt use
Summary
Public Service Committee authorized applying for an Ohio EPA H2Ohio Rivers Chloride Reduction Grant of up to $75,000 to outfit street-cleaning and snow fleet vehicles with brine systems to reduce rock salt use and chloride runoff.
The Public Service Committee advanced an ordinance authorizing the director of public service or his designee to apply for and, if awarded, accept and expend an Ohio Environmental Protection Agency H2Ohio Rivers Chloride Reduction Grant. The grant award is up to $75,000 and would fund installation of brine systems and electronic spreader controls on the street cleaning and snow removal fleet.
Chris Bridal, director of public service, said the city already operates two brine-making systems, stores about 20,000 gallons of brine and uses potable city water to make brine from rock salt. He explained that brine is typically made at a concentration of 23% salt by weight and is used for pretreating roads when pavement temperatures and conditions are appropriate, which reduces the amount of rock salt dropped during storms. Bridal said the approach is “more environmentally friendly” and can save money by reducing rock salt use and wear on equipment.
Council members asked technical questions about temperature thresholds and operational considerations; Bridal said brine use is generally effective when pavement temperatures are around 28°F and above, but wind and precipitation can affect how the material performs. Committee approved the application by consent and forwarded the ordinance to full council.
