Sanding trucks are doing the rounds in Red Deer to help make slippery roads easier to navigate.
Doug Halldorson, the city’s roads superintendent, said the main routes are in good condition, but polished side streets are creating some difficulties for motorists.
“We’re getting some sand on those side streets as we speak,” Halldorson said Thursday about the seven to nine sanding trucks that have regularly been on the roads 24/7, seven days a week, during the current icy conditions.
He said sand does the best job to create traction during the extreme cold, and the city has a huge supply that is protected by a tent. The sand is pre-wet to help it stick to roads.
Side streets are only done upon request. People can call the public works department at 403-342-8238 to report issues.
He said intersections, where there is a lot of stopping and starting and spinning tires, often create shiny spots that require sand. City staff monitor the major roads every shift, but people can also call, and a truck will be sent out to address the ice.
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Heavy traffic areas are sanded before rush hours, but drivers should still be careful as snow gets packed down on the roads, he said.
“It does get a little slick, so take some extra time.”
Halldorson said until recently it has been unseasonably warm this winter, with not much snow. Residential streets aren’t plowed until snow pack reaches five to 10 cm.
“We don’t have much accumulating for snow pack right now. We’ll see what the rest of the year brings.”
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Residents and business owners can pick up free sand for ice control on the sidewalks in front of their property. The sandbox is located beside the large white tent outside of the city’s Civic Yards at 7721 40 Ave., north of the main front entrance gate.
Remember to bring a sand pail and shovel.
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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