The city's Street Department demonstrated snow removal equipment and maintenance procedures during a recent presentation, highlighting the comprehensive fleet used to keep streets clear during winter weather.

The department operates multiple types of equipment for snow removal, including plow trucks, motor graders for bridge deck clearing, skid loaders, and a large snowblower for heavy snow operations. Street crews also maintain all equipment in-house, with city mechanics fabricating replacement parts and performing regular maintenance checks.

Safety and visibility improvements have been implemented across the fleet over recent years. The department installed heated wiper blades on all plow trucks four seasons ago, which use temperature sensors to activate heating elements that prevent ice buildup. Spotlights were added to help operators see wing plows during nighttime operations, and additional lighting illuminates salt spinners so drivers can monitor salt distribution through rear-view mirrors.

Backup cameras installed in recent years provide operators with better visibility when reversing and allow monitoring of salt spinner operations. The wing plows, measuring between nine and 12 feet long, feature replaceable cutting edges with rubber coating and curb guards manufactured by city mechanics.

Street Department staff emphasized their commitment to equipment maintenance, conducting thorough inspections after every plowing operation to ensure vehicles remain in optimal working condition for rapid deployment during snow events.