Understanding the True Costs of Snow and Ice Control
Project Number: Clear Roads 10-03
Status: In progress
Start Date: September 2011
End Date: September 2013
Investigator: PB Americas, Inc.
Problem
State Departments of Transportation are under constant pressure to justify their snow and ice program budgets and to look for new approaches to saving money, such as hiring private contractors and reducing level of service. However, all stakeholders need a better understanding of the total cost of winter operations in order to make informed decisions.
Objective
To effectively defend current budgets and request additional needed funds, winter maintenance professionals need a better understanding of the costs associated with their operations, how these costs compare with other similar states, and opportunities for reducing spending that will not negatively impact level of service.
Expected Results
A tool that will help winter highway professionals better estimate true costs for snow and ice removal, make cost comparisons with states that have similar climates and roadways, and consider new budget scenarios based on the successes of other agencies.
Status Reports