The Macomb County Department of Roads (MCDR) is gearing up for ice and snow with the addition of new winter maintenance equipment and getting trucks and plows prepared for winter.
“Michigan’s unpredictable weather impacts our roads, residents and community. Road safety and winter readiness are top priorities for Macomb County,” said MCDR Director Bryan Santo. “We work relentlessly to ensure our winter operations maintain a safe and drivable road system for all Macomb County motorists and visitors.”
MCDR has a winter maintenance fleet of more than 100 snowplows, salt trucks and graders. The department has an annual average budget of $4 million to keep the fleet on the road and up to date with technology and equipment. In 2020, MCDR spent more than $5.8 million on winter maintenance for primary, local and state roads.
With the support of the motoring public, MCDR’s goal is to keep the roads as safe as possible. The Department of Roads cautions drivers to remain alert during and immediately following winter weather and reminds motorists to drive appropriately for conditions and to give snowplows plenty of room to safely clear the roads. MCDR also urges drivers to follow these safety tips on the roadways:
- Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the hood, roof, trunk, headlights, taillights, windows and mirrors.
- Buckle up.
- Start your drive early allowing extra time for slow driving conditions.
- Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Drive defensively and brake early. Stopping on icy roads requires three to nine times the distance to come to a complete stop.
For the latest news from the Department of Roads, follow MCDR on Facebook and sign up to receive email and text alerts for construction and traffic updates at roads.macombgov.org.
