LAWRENCE CO. – Lawrence County Highway Superintendent Brian Sowder announced strategic delays in snow removal operations following Sunday’s winter storm, citing the need to wait until most of the precipitation had fallen before deploying their resources.
Road crews began plowing main thoroughfares at 4 a.m. Monday, though operations were hampered by heavy accumulation. The county reported 17 incidents of plows becoming stranded in ditches, including one case where a driver was forced to take evasive action to avoid a collision with a vehicle traveling during road closures.
“We appreciate residents who observed the red status and remained off the roads,” said Sowder. “Their cooperation significantly aided our snow removal efforts.”
The county’s fleet of 15 snow plow drivers, each responsible for approximately 45 miles of roadway, operates at reduced capacity with a small truck out of service. This has particularly affected service to cul-de-sacs and residential additions. Officials acknowledged some mailbox damage during plowing operations and have committed to replacing affected mailboxes along county roads.
Residents are urged to refrain from pushing snow from driveways onto public roads, which creates hazardous conditions for travelers. Officials noted that snow being pushed into driveways by large dump trucks is an unavoidable consequence of plow design. Crews will return to address these areas as resources permit.
The county maintains a priority-based approach to snow removal, focusing first on main roads before transitioning to side streets and residential areas. Officials emphasized that specific timing for road clearing cannot be predicted due to varying conditions and resource limitations.
“We ask for continued patience as our crews work to clear all county roads,” Sowder stated. “Our drivers work extended hours under challenging conditions to ensure public safety.”
County officials concluded by encouraging public recognition of the plow drivers’ efforts, noting their dedication to serving Lawrence County despite modest compensation for their essential work.
