HARWICH – Snow removal operations and treating roads have been a priority for most of the commonwealth over the last month and the department of public works director in Harwich believes his crews have done well to keep up.
Harwich DPW Director Lincoln Hooper said, it has been tough keeping supplies in stock.
“The real challenge is materials. Everyone is really low on salt and we’ve been fortunate enough to come by some,” said Hooper. “Our stock is certainly not plush but we feel more comfortable that we’ll get to the finish line if it ever stops snowing.”
Hooper said the town has not had to haul much snow and has received help from a recent purchase for a tractor snow blower attachment to help clear sidewalks.
“We’ve been very fortunate that we were able to take a snow blower and direct it in most instances where we did not have to haul,” said Hooper. “We have done very little hauling because that is very time-consuming and takes up resources.”
The snow that has been moved has been taken to Brooks Park and the Bank Street Parking lot.
Hooper said the town has probably spent between $300,000 and $400,000 on snow removal this year which is well over the budgeted $130,000.
“I think you can see a difference between Harwich and some of our neighbors,” said Hooper. “I’m very proud of the hours and the effort that the staff has put in to deal with this in the name of public safety and making our roads passable for our residents.”
