SOLON — While Solon’s school kids enjoyed days off due to school being called off, the city’s Public Works crew kept busy trying to plow the streets and clear the sidewalks. While the first storm brought heavy, wet snow the second brought strong winds leading to massive amounts of drifting.
Public Works Director Scott Kleppe provided an “and counting” tally even as the work continued. Kleppe and his crew – Dave Richards, Tim Stull, Kris Richardson, Nathan Svec, and Ryan Stebral had put in 331-man hours and, “We still have sidewalks to do, widening streets, and clearing streets.” Kleppe noted there were still streets partially or fully drifted-in as of Monday morning. Over 60 tons of salt was put down before the temperatures plummeted. Salt is ineffective at melting ice at temperatures less than 20 degrees. And at least 300 gallons of fuel had been used in the equipment.
Not only was the battle against winter tough on the men but on the equipment as well.
“We sheared a wing plow off one truck (it was on its way to Manchester that morning for repairs) and have another with engine problems.” Kleppe said parts were on-order and he was awaiting their arrival. Another employee was heading for Davenport to pick up a snow blower for use with the wheeled loaders to help clear drifts and the trails.
“If you see any of the Public Works employees, pat them on the back or say thanks,” Kleppe said in a Saturday social media post. “They have been working incredibly hard so that everyone can travel throughout town.”