By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The snow and cold have been annoying to many and dangerous for others. The winter weather also carries a hefty price tag. Road and Bridge Director Darren Williams provided an update to the Barton County Commission Tuesday morning. The January storms have cost his department $50,200 in labor, equipment, and materials.
"The storm started Jan. 5 and basically ended for us Jan. 19," Williams said. "The storm started out as rain, then the snow came, dropping 5-6 inches of snow on the already wet surface, causing it to become slick."
County crews also had to contend with high winds for several days, which caused snow drifts on roads. With the courthouse renovation in progress, county crews also spent several hours in Great Bend.
"As you know, the county maintains 389 miles of paved roads," said Williams. "We also take care of the JC Penney parking lot, the Sears parking lot, the county attorney's, health department, sheriff's department, community corrections, and 911."
Over the two-week period, county crews spread 520 tons of 50/50 salt and sand mix on roads. Williams said another 200 tons of salt has been ordered from Lyons with a price tag exceeding $10,000.