Beehive State News

Despite the lack of snow in Utah's valleys this winter, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) maintenance crews remain active. While regular pre-treatment of roads to prevent ice and plowing in snowy canyons continue, the warmer weather has allowed UDOT to address other maintenance tasks.

"It's kind of a crazy year, with much less snow than usual, but it can change on a dime here," stated Shawn Lambert, UDOT Director of Maintenance. "No matter what the weather is, we're always out here working. There are still plenty of activities to take care of."

On February 2nd, Salt Lake Metro maintenance crews filled 78 potholes on I-80 and I-15 in one night. Later this week, they plan to address potholes in the "Spaghetti Bowl," where I-15, I-80, and SR-201 intersect.

In Grantsville, crews have been crack sealing SR-196 pavement near Dugway Proving Ground. This process involves filling asphalt cracks with a flexible sealant. Shane Lazenby, UDOT's Grantsville shed supervisor remarked, "It's a lot easier on us to be out here working in the cool weather than in the summer heat."

Echo maintenance shed crews are clearing drains blocked by rockfall and debris. Across the state, various sheds engage in sweeping, litter removal, sign and post maintenance, fence repairs, rock removal, graffiti removal, cable barrier maintenance and more.

"We're out here doing whatever else needs to be done," said Bob Giolas, Salt Lake Metro shed supervisor.