Snowcrete Proves a Unique Foe for Seasoned Plow Operators (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Arlington County, Virginia — Local crews transported thousands of tons of compacted snow mixtures known as snowcrete from roadways and sidewalks in the wake of a severe winter storm last month.
Snowcrete Proves a Unique Foe for Seasoned Plow Operators
Even drivers with decades of experience described the recent cleanup as unprecedented. Snowcrete formed when initial fluffy snow accumulation turned into a skating rink-like layer after sleet and freezing temperatures hit.[1][2]
Jeremy Hassan, bureau chief for Water, Sewers and Streets in Arlington County, noted the material’s resistance to standard plowing. “When you’re hitting it with that plow, it adds weight, it adds resistance, and they’re trying to push it to the sides. Also, it moves in chunks versus fluffy snow,” he explained.[1]
This hardpack, blended with sand and street debris, demanded shifts from routine plowing to intensive hauling. Operators made real-time adjustments across the region’s 1,000 lane miles, including turn lanes, bike paths and bridges.[1]
Business districts saw the quickest action due to pedestrian traffic and on-street parking constraints.
Nonstop Crews Launch Round-the-Clock Hauling Efforts
Arlington teams pulled 14 consecutive 12-hour shifts starting January 24, deploying about 80 pieces of heavy equipment per shift alongside contracted trucks.[2]
Operations targeted commercial corridors first, then intersections and bus stops to ensure safe access for students and commuters. Crews cleared roads, sidewalks and public transit areas despite ongoing frigid conditions.[1]
Over 5,000 truckloads moved material equivalent to 55,000 to 75,000 tons from priority zones. Snow-melters fired up around the clock marked their first use in a decade.[1][2]
- Commercial corridors received top priority for hauling.
- Intersections followed to improve traffic flow.
- Bus stops cleared for schoolchildren’s safety.
- Sidewalks and bike lanes addressed to aid pedestrians.
- Bridges and turn lanes included in the 1,000-mile scope.
Dumping Sites Fill Up Across the Region
Arlington designated five sites countywide for the massive influx, including parking lots and open facilities. Piles near the county courthouse grew large enough to temporarily block a farmers market.[1]
Some locations hit full capacity quickly, prompting continued hauling elsewhere. In Washington, D.C., crews relocated snowcrete to RFK Stadium, where mounds expanded as dump trucks arrived steadily.[3]
Hassan highlighted the scale: “Day and night, 24/7, we had to haul over 5,000 truckloads of materials from our commercial corridors.”[1]
Balancing Haul-Off with Natural Thaw
Officials weighed full removal against leaving manageable piles for warmer weather. Hassan stressed finding equilibrium: “What’s enough to get the community out there to be able to enjoy businesses, make their medical appointments… but also try to hope that Mother Nature helps.”[1]
Efforts scaled back after initial surges, with enforcement of sidewalk clearing ordinances resuming February 3. Property owners now face checks for public safety hazards.[2]
Sunlight and rising temperatures offered gradual aid, easing the burden on crews.
Key Takeaways
- Arlington hauled 5,000+ truckloads, totaling 55,000–75,000 tons, to five sites.
- Snow-melters activated for first time in 10 years amid full-capacity dumps.
- Priorities focused on commercial areas, bus stops and pedestrian paths.
The region’s coordinated push restored mobility after a stubborn storm, blending human grit with weather’s eventual assist. How has the cleanup affected your commute? Share in the comments.
