Amid cutbacks, road crews gear up for heavy snowfall in Berrien County

By John Paul (jpaul@wsbt.com)

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Berrien County road crews prepare for first snowfall

Berrien County road crews are preparing for the first major snowfall of the season amid cutbacks made necessary by soaring salt prices and other increased costs. (WSBT photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Nov 17, 2008 at 6:46 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 19, 2008 at 3:01 PM EST

BERRIEN SPRINGS — Berrien County is expected to receive heavy snow accumulations Monday night. Road workers spent most of the day preparing for the area's first significant snowfall this season.

It's also the first season after the nation's economic crisis sent prices soaring for salt and forced many departments to cut back.

Snowfall accumulations varied across Michigan and Indiana. In St. Joseph County, trees, cars and roadways were covered by snow.
By late afternoon, there was little accumulation in Berrien County.

People like Jake Wilhoit tried holding off for as long as possible without a coat, while Jeff Levy admitted he was "freezing."

Wilhoit and his associate put the finishing touches on some maintenance work as snow flurries began falling.

"I'm trying to stay moving to stay warm," said Wilhoit.

"I'm actually ready for winter," said Levy. "I have no problem with it."

Berrien County's lake-effect advisory for Monday night came at a time when the economy forced many road departments to scale back.

"The economy's direct results can be seen on the Indiana Toll Road," said Matt Pierce, spokesperson for the Indiana Toll Road.

"You look at less durable goods, less consumer confidence," said Pierce. "You're going to see less traffic, commuting and less durable good being moved."

And in Berrien County costs have increased.

Berrien County paid $6 more per ton for road salt compared to last year.

"So if you buy 8,000 tons of salt, that's $48,000," said Brian Berndt, with the Berrien County Roads Department. "Our revenues are down $300,000 since last year."

Berrien County has reduced three positions and closed one garage. Workers were moved to other areas.

Inch by inch, Pierce said, "You don't know when and how much it's going to snow here, but it will snow in Indiana."

Road crews in both Michigan and Indiana say they're ready.

"We're up for the challenge," said Berndt. "Be patient."

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