Sensible Salting

We're using a more effective and efficient strategy to keep Avon Lake's roads safe for drivers during winter weather.

A Smarter Approach to Winter Road Safety

Proven Strategy

Sensible salting is a modern approach used by communities throughout Northeast Ohio because it's more effective and efficient than using traditional rock salt alone

Uses Less Salt

Reduced overall salt usage = less cost and less impact on our roads and the environment

Safety Is Key

We're changing how we apply salt to our roadways, NOT the high safety standards motorists rely on during a winter storm

Why Sensible Salting Makes Sense

Here are six reasons why sensible salting is the right strategy for Avon Lake.

It's Safe & Effective

There's a reason why communities throughout Northeast Ohio use sensible salting strategies. It's proven to be a smarter, more effective way of keeping roads safe during winter storms.

Brine Prevents Icing

Crews pre-wet roadways with a 23.4% solution of rock salt and water to help prevent snow and ice from bonding to the surface, making plowing much easier.

It Reduces Costs

Sensible salting allows for the reduction of material application during significant snow events and overnight hours when traffic volume is lower. Less material means lower costs to keep our roads safe for winter drivers.

It's Less Harmful to the Environment

Sensible salting significantly reduces the total amount of salt needed to maintain safe road conditions, lessening the impact on our environment.

It's Also Less Harmful to Our Roads

Because sensible salting uses less overall salt, it reduces pavement deterioration.

Lower Production Costs

Thanks to support from the Ohio EPA's H2Ohio Rivers grant program, the Public Works Department's brining system means the city can make its own brine using the same rock salt we use to treat our roads. We DO NOT use byproducts of the oil and gas drilling industry to make our brine.

How It Works

Monitor Weather

Crews continuously monitors forecasts and roadway conditions.

Pre-treat Roads

Roads are pre-wet with brine to prevent ice and snow from bonding to the pavement.

Plow Operations

Crews work during snow events to maintain safe travel conditions. During snowstorms, a five-truck route is in effect. During a heavy storm there are two trucks per route operating (10 total).

Main Roads, Then Side Streets

Side streets will not be serviced until all main roads are clear. Main roads may need to be serviced repeatedly during heavy winds.