When the forecast calls for snow in Lawrence Township, the Public Works Department has several options.
The following list of snow removal information was submitted by the Lawrence Township Public Works Department. For additional information, residents should call the department at (609) 587-1894.
Does the township use salt brine or rock salt?
Depending on the temperature and type of precipitation, the township may apply salt brine to the main township roads. In this process, the water evaporates and the salt remains on the roadway, helping to prevent snow and ice bonding to the pavement during plowing operations.
During freezing temperatures, the township will apply calcium chloride to the salt. This process creates heat and allows the salt to be more effective in lower temperatures. In some cases, snow may become “packed” to the roadway from traffic. Sunshine, salt and vehicle traffic is the only remedy in this case. The township plow truck will then remove the resulting slush from the roadway.
When does the township start plowing?
The township will begin to apply rock salt during winter precipitation to the main roads. Once there is enough snow that has accumulated (3 inches), the township will dispatch additional trucks and commence plowing efforts on the main township roadways. Keeping the main roads passable is essential for emergency vehicles and motorists. Once the snowfall ends, the main roads will be plowed curb to curb. Crews will turn their attention to secondary roads and developments.
Plowing curb to curb is essential for drainage and traffic safety. However, this “curb to curb” method often results in snow at driveway entrances. Homeowners, when looking at your driveway entrance from your home, should clear the area to the left of your driveway along the curb. This will provide a place for a majority of snow from the plow truck to deposit, leaving your driveway apron clear of additional snow. During prolonged storms, it is sometimes necessary to plow municipal streets more than once. Residents may need to remove snow from their apron or sidewalk twice in this instance. Sometimes, a plow truck may leave a development before it is complete. This is usually due to needed repairs or refueling.
How can residents help during snow removal?
If possible during snow emergencies, please do not park your vehicle in the street. Snow removal operations are more effective when the street is clear of vehicles and other obstructions. Some streets are posted for “no parking when snow covered;” please obey the signs. Violations of the ordinance can result in a summons.
After the snow has stopped, property owners or tenants have 24 hours to remove snow and ice from sidewalks as per ordinance No. 378. This includes entrances to crosswalks. In addition, snow or ice from private properties or vehicles shall not be placed into, or upon, any street or sidewalk in the township. Therefore, do not throw snow into the street. This hinders plowing operations, and impedes the safe passage of traffic.
Please keep in mind, every winter storm is different. The duration of the storm, type of precipitation, temperatures and wind speed will dictate the township response to the storm. These factors all contribute to the amount of time it will take to clear our 20 lane miles of municipal roadways.
For more information, contact the Public Works Department at (609) 587-1894.
Colonial Lake was covered in snow after a storm in February 2014. (Staff photo by Lexie Yearly.),
