Towson, Md. (December 2, 2008) – This morning, Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith and County officials reviewed the County's snow preparations at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Towson. Baltimore County is fully prepared for winter storm operations, with trained crews, well-maintained equipment, and all government agencies ready to assist County residents.
At today's news conference, Bureau of Highways Chief Tim Burgess announced that the County has 52,000 tons of road salt at 14 sites around the County, 300 trucks, and 400 people available for quick response to maintain the 2,661 miles of County-maintained roadways.
"Baltimore County has budgeted $5 million for snow removal this season," said Smith. "The cost of salt has risen 17 percent compared to last year, and we have purchased the same amount for this winter. We are committed to keeping our roads safe for drivers during this time of year."
Directors and representatives from the departments of health, aging, emergency management, social services, and solid waste management contributed related advice and safety tips at the news conference. Nicole Listima, meteorologist from the National Weather Service, was on hand to give her prediction of winter weather for the coming months.
Smith encouraged residents to log on to the Baltimore County web site for information on winter storm operations, inclement weather closures, and helpful cold weather health and safety precautions.
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