Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow ... Columbia Public Works prepares for snow fall

The first snow fall is likely not too far off. After Columbia saw three significant snow falls late in the winter of 2013, it's time again to prepare for winter weather conditions.

Columbia Public Works talks about snow removal all year. For the past two weeks, Public Works Fleet Maintenance and Street Crews have been readying equipment by mounting and testing snow plows, salt spreaders, loaders, and other equipment used to treat and clear Columbia streets.

Crews have also been going over snow routes and map books to ensure we treat and plow all Columbia Streets as efficiently as possible.

On Wednesday, November 20 from 7:30 am to 3:30 PM, (Winter Weather Awareness Day), you'll likley see crews and equipment out across Columbia as we conduct our annual practice run.

"By getting the crews out in the trucks and onto the streets, it allows the crews to become familiar with the areas they are assigned, allows them to identify any potential issues associated with snow removal, and allows us to test the equipment", said John Glascock, Director of Public Works.

While we're out practicing this Wednesday, we ask motorist to give the plows extra room on the road to maneuver. We also encourage motorist to think about how snow covered roads will affect their daily commute and to ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter driving conditions.

Media outlets can request interviews and ride alongs during the practice run by contacting the public information specialist at (573) 874-7250.