BEDFORD – As Lawrence County emerges from a series of winter storms, county commissioners and department heads met Tuesday to address road safety, emergency responses, and the procurement of essential supplies for the remainder of the season.
The commissioners opened several competitive bids for salt, stone, and fuel. The commissioners took the bids under advisement, and they will be awarded during the December 30th meeting.
Highway Superintendent Brian Sowder commended his crews for their tireless efforts in keeping county thoroughfares passable during the recent heavy snowfall. However, he warned that extreme temperatures continue to pose a challenge for road treatments.
Crews are currently restocking sand and salt piles on hillsides. These stations are strategically placed so motorists who lose traction can access materials to help recover their vehicles.
While bridges and known slick spots are being treated, Sowder noted that traditional melting agents have limitations.
“It will pretty much stay frozen when temperatures are below 20 degrees,” Sowder explained, urging continued caution for drivers.
Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer provided a status report on public safety during the weather event. While the county saw numerous “slide-offs” as vehicles lost traction, she confirmed there were no major accidents or serious injuries reported.
One notable incident involved a county emergency vehicle on Monday.
“EMS 12 did have a patient onboard when it slid off the roadway,” Luchauer reported. “Fortunately, no one was injured, and the patient was safely transported to the hospital by another ambulance.”
Despite the slick conditions, Luchauer noted that the coordinated response between agencies helped prevent more severe outcomes during the peak of the storm.
