Gaithersburg’s Public Works Crews Prepare for Season with “Snow Road-eo”

Teams, each consisting of a snow plow driver and a navigator, competed in a timed obstacle course where they negotiated their way through eight stations along a plotted route. The course especially challenges the participants to operate large machinery in very tight spaces, something they encounter regularly when plowing courts and newer developments with on-street parking. Crew members completed pre-trip plow truck inspections and a written exam prior to the obstacle course event.

Winners and participants were recognized during an awards ceremony following the competition. Mark Smith and Andrew Rosencrantz came in first place (for the third year in a row), followed by Jon Burgess and Bobby Cox in second, and Todd Compton and Kerry Bodmer in third. Gaithersburg Junior Mayor Milly Abdo made a special appearance and participated in a drive-along with a Public Works crew member.

Also on display at the event were snow plows sporting specially painted blades with original artwork as part of the Paint the Plow community outreach program, an initiative of the Gaithersburg Parks, Arts and Recreation Corporation (G-PARC). The painted blades feature designs and messages bringing awareness to the overuse of salt on roads. Learn more about the City’s Road Salt Drop Off Program here.

As Public Works crews get ready to combat snow, residents are reminded to do their part as well. Read about how you can prepare for a winter storm in Gaithersburg and find snow removal information and updates on the City’s website here. Also, follow us on Facebook and Twitter @GburgMD for winter weather updates, and subscribe to Alert Gaithersburg for emergency notifications.

Not sure who is responsible for plowing which streets in Gaithersburg? The Maryland Department of Transportation maintains an online map service that allows residents to enter a street address and learn which agency (state, county, or local municipality) is responsible for road maintenance. Use the map locator at www.mdot.maryland.gov/knowyourroads.html to see who’s responsible for what.

In addition to snow removal, Gaithersburg’s Department of Public Works maintains all City facilities, supervises construction, reviews storm water management, sediment control and drainage projects, maintains and beautifies City streets, buildings and parks, administers the City’s bulk pick up, recycling and fleet maintenance programs, and a host of other activities.