“We’re ready,” said Glenn Jorgensen, Smithtown’s Superintendent of Highways, “ We have 6,000 cubic yards of sand and salt stockpiled and ready to go when needed.”
With forecasters predicting a major snowstorm in our area tonight into tomorrow morning Glenn Jorgensen is not taking any chances and not taking any shortcuts. With some snowstorms you have some flexibility as to when and how many crews you call. This time forecaster’s snow predictions are in the six to fifteen inch range with high winds as well, therefore, “ when the first snowflakes fall the call will go out to all crews. That means everyone and everything will be working,” said Jorgensen.
Roadwork will be done in three phases salt and sand in the beginning, plowing until all roads are clear and then the follow up with salt and sand as needed. Drifting snow is expected to create areas where re-plowing will be necessary. The town will be sending out around 100 town vehicles and forty private vehicles to ensure that the roads are cleared as quickly and safely as possible.
Costs are covered in the Highway Superintendent’s budget. This storm is estimated to cost about $200,000 but Jorgensen says that he has the money in his budget and his priority is keeping the roadways clear of snow.
What would Glenn Jorgenson like the residents to do? Stay off the roads unless it is necessary. Stranded vehicles make the work of snow removal much harder. Don’t park on the streets. If you own a snowplow blow the snow on your lawn and not into the street!
Jorgenson would like the people of Smithtown to know that “Smithtown will maintain its roads the way they have been doing for many years.” Glenn Jorgenson expects the same results, satisfied residents.