The Municipal - March 2024 by The Papers Inc.

Magazine For America’s Municipalities

March 2024

Fleet Service & Management

INSIDE: Agile Fleet Bringing fleet operations back in-house Bolingbrook, IL Permit No. 1939

PAID PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

www.themunicipal.com

Movement to EVs continues

2 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

Ergonomic Safety Ladders Prevent Accidents and Increase Productivity Municipal fleet managers across the United States have been receiving praise from both mechanics and management for their decision to bring LockNClimb ergonomic safety ladders into the maintenance shop. Mechanics like them because their work is faster, safer, easier and they work in more comfort to reach service points than by any other method. Management likes them because they help prevent accidents and injuries which means more productivity higher morale, faster vehicle maintenance turn-around and lower costs. Using these ladders is a win-win-win for the mechanics, management and the municipality. Features include: • Rated as 300-lb. 1-A Special Purpose Ladders. • Meet OSHA and ANSI specifications. • 6061-grade aluminum patented support frames. • Commercial grade wheels for easy rolling. • Yellow safety handrails on both sides. • Protective rubber padding on railbacks and treads. • Rubber drop bumpers on sides of ladders. • Slip-resistant extra wide comfort treads. • Replaceable brass and rubber feet. • Less than .1% repair rate after 3 years. • 100% made in the U.S.A. LockNClimb has designed ladder systems to serve the needs of work vehicle maintenance personnel including redi-mix, utility, solid waste, dump trucks, all types of heavy equipment and passenger buses. Click on the QR code to view videos of LockNClimb ladders used on all types of work vehicles. For more information and to save by buying direct from the manufacturer call (620) 577-2577 or write sales@locknclimb.com.

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MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 3

Contents |

VOL. 14 No. 12

www.themunicipal.com Shutterstock photos

March 2024

22 17 F ocus on Fleet Service & Management Focus on Fleet Service 38 Parks & Environmental 30 18 Services: Evansville finds a & Management: Bringing fleet maintenance back in-house

22 Focus on Fleet Service

good fit in skate park

40 Building & Construction:

Norman remodels bank into & Management: Lubbock’s transit center apprentice CDL program boosts Crisis Management: solid waste department numbers Mountain town looks out for its seniors Focus on Fleet Service & Management: Madison Streets, Highways & incorporates sustainability goals Bridges: ‘Takin’ it to the Streets’ into fleet services building in Tennessee

30 Focus on Fleet Service & 52 Municipal Management: Management: Infrastructure key to EV success

34 Focus on Fleet Service & Management: Midwest city unrolls new winter strategy

Florida city selected for international collaboration on sustainability

56 Technology: Iowa DOT tests out new snowfighting technology

Fleet Service & Management

ON THE COVER Agile Fleet’s FleetCommander can aid municipalities’ transition to electric fleets. This software can help plan charging infrastructure and the placement of vehicle assets. Learn more on page 10.

INSIDE: Agile Fleet Bringing fleet operations back in-house

www.themunicipal.com

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Movement to EVs continues

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Meet our Staff publisher RON BAUMGARTNER rbaumgartner@the-papers.com

Departments 08 Editor’s Note: Move to electric continues

editor-in-chief DEB PATTERSON dpatterson@the-papers.com

10 From the Cover: Agile Fleet

editor SARAH WRIGHT swright@the-papers.com

12 On the Road Again: America’s Stonehenge

60 Conference Calendar

publication manager CHRIS SMITH chris@themunicipal.com

61 Product Spotlights

senior account executive REES WOODCOCK rees@themunicipal.com

62 News & Notes 66 Top 10: Where the people care

graphic designer MARY LESTER mlester@the-papers.com

69 Advertiser Index

business manager ANNETTE WEAVER aweaver@the-papers.com

director of marketing STEVE MEADOWS smeadows@the-papers.com

mail manager KHOEUN KHOEUTH kkhoeuth@the-papers.com

marketing assistant TAELYNNE OUSLEY tousley@the-papers.com

Contributing Writers Jennifer Barton, Beth Anne Brink-Cox, Lauren Caggiano, Nicholette Carlson, Denise Fedorow, Danielle, Lund, Janet G. Patterson, Julie Young

WWW.THEMUNICIPAL.COM PO Box 188 • 206 S. Main St., Milford, IN 46542 866-580-1138/Fax 800–886–3796 Editorial Ext. 2307; Advertising Ext. 2505, 2408

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The Municipal does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does The Municipal or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication. The Municipal reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. The Municipal has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. The Municipal makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products. No reproduction of The Municipal is allowed without express written permission. Copyright © 2024.

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 7

Editor’s Note

Move to electric continues

Sarah Wright | Editor

or those seeking greener transportation, electric continues to lead the pack. It’s been interesting watching the technology evolve and improve since my early years of talking to fleets beginning to bring electric vehicles on board. Range concerns have lessened, particularly in areas with the built-up infrastructure. In November 2023, Axios released “The country’s electric car hotspots, mapped.” Unsurprisingly, the hubs for EVs continue to cling to the coastlines, though there has been progress in land, particularly in metro areas and the state of Colorado. EVs are still not without their challenges, particularly in northern states with harsher winters. Teslas, in particular, drew headlines this winter as they struggled to charge or ran out of juice. In a January 2024 PBS article, titled “Cold weather can cut electric vehicle range and make charging tough. Here’s what you need to know,” Bruce Westlake, president of the Eastern Michigan Electric Vehicle Association, noted the cause for this situation has a lot to do with drivers’ inexperience with EVs. “They’re just learning,” he told PBS. “And Tesla isn’t very good at explaining some things.” One key point Westlake mentioned: Batteries can take a

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half hour to warm in frigid temperatures to be ready to charge. Many drivers starting out with EVs don’t realize they need to precondition their batteries. The cold not only affects the ability to charge but also range. While northern states face some challenges when adopting all-electric vehicles, it isn’t stopping cities from welcoming EVs into their fleets. It’s a common theme you’ll see in this issue of The Municipal. No matter where they are located in the U.S., cities are striving toward laying the infrastructure and bringing EVs on board. There is definitely an openness that wasn’t quite there in the 2010s as quite a few fleet managers watched EV developments before committing to purchasing them. Writer Denise Fedorow connected with Knoxville, Tenn., which aims to achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in city operations by 2030. Its fleet has stepped up to help meet that goal by unrolling EV charging stations for not only city vehicles but for publicly owned EVs. Fleet Services Director Nicholas Bradshaw shared the city’s progress in installing these chargers and details about its green fleet policy, which was adopted in 2021.

Other fleet stories include Colorado Springs’ efforts to bring its fleet back in house; the effort is expected to save the city money in the long run. Meanwhile, in Lubbock, Texas, people interested in being solid waste operators can apply to the city’s apprenticeship program, which will help them obtain their commercial driver licenses. This has ensured the city has plenty of drivers for their fleet of solid waste vehicles. We’re also spotlighting Madison, Wis.’s, innovative fleet services building that has been designed for efficiency and energy savings. Finally, we’ll spotlight Overland Park, Kan.’s, winter fleet operations. Winter can be rough on vehicles, but at least spring is just around the corner. Hopefully, this March won’t have too many lion-like qualities. M

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From The Cover

Driving EV Adoption through Fleet Automation By ANNA SHEA | Agile Fleet

The transition toward sustainable transportation has gained significant momentum in recent years, and electric vehicles (EVs) stand at the forefront of this shift. Organizations across the globe are recognizing the long-term environmental and economic benefits of EVs, and many are now exclusively adopting EVs for their fleets. The transition to EVs is not without its challenges, however. As with any forward-looking change in the industry, the adoption of EVs in fleet operations can lead to pushback, and fleet managers must have a nuanced understanding of both the barriers to adoption and the innovative solutions that fleet automation can provide. Leading the charge: Organizations embracing EVs A growing number of government entities across the nation are spearheading the transition to EVs, exemplifying their commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. For example, the city of Los Angeles has 10 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

set an ambitious goal to convert its entire municipal fleet to EVs by 2028, a move that underscores the city’s dedication to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable urban development. Similarly, the city of New York has plans to transition to an all-electric municipal fleet by 2040. These examples from

ABOVE: A lagging charging network infrastructure and a lack of standardization in charging systems can add to resistance when adopting EVs; however, guided policy adoptions can ease this challenge. (Photo provided) municipal governments not only set a powerful example for other cities but also highlight the practical, long-term economic and environmental advantages of incorporating EVs into public sector operations. This shift demonstrates how government institutions can play a crucial role in fostering sustainable transportation solutions. Understanding the barriers to EV adoption Despite the growing enthusiasm for electric vehicles, several roadblocks have historically hindered their widespread adoption in fleet operations. Opposition to EV adoption often revolves around a few key issues:

driver unfamiliarity with EV technology and “range anxiety,” that is, the fear of insufficient EV battery life and the perception that the nation’s battery-charging infrastructure is lacking (especially in rural areas). These technical and logistical concerns often breed resistance among drivers and other fleet staff, and thus hinder the full-scale adoption of EVs. Adding to these challenges is a lagging charging network infrastructure and a lack of standardization in charging systems. This disparity in charging connectors and power requirements not only causes confusion among potential EV users but also limits the interoperability between different EV models and charging stations. Such inconsistencies can lead to situations where drivers find themselves without a place to plug in or at incompatible charging stations, a reality that exacerbates both range anxiety and overall driver resistance to full EV adoption. These obstacles highlight the complexity of the transition to electric vehicles, making fleet managers’ understanding of these issues as imperative as the EVs themselves. Fleet automation as a solution As with any management decision, plans for your organization’s EV rollout should be made leveraging information rather than instinct. A Fleet Management Information System (FMIS) platform should provide fleet managers with many of the data points needed to make the rollout of EVs a success. For example, charging infrastructure and charging stations should intuitively be placed in areas with the greatest vehicle demand. However, this demand must be considered in conjunction with requested vehicle types and trips that can be sustained by available EVs. With the right reporting from your FMIS, fleet leaders can determine which dispatch locations see the most short-mileage trips for light-duty vehicles and choose to aggregate EV assets and charging resources in these locations. Another way that organizations can utilize automation to encourage EV use is through automated electric vehicle assignment. Advanced fleet management information systems, such as Agile Fleet’s FleetCommander, can help fleet managers identify and allocate EVs for appropriate trips, such as short-distance urban

FleetCommander’s report engine allows fleet managers to slice data by usage type, pool location, asset classes, trip type and more. These reports help with planning charging infrastructure, placing vehicle assets and understanding barriers to driver adoption. (Photo provided)

trips, where their efficiency is maximized. Moreover, fleet managers can adopt and implement policies that mandate the use of EVs for specific types of trips, a strategy that would undoubtedly have a positive impact on the adoption of EVs. This approach can particularly be effective in government fleets, where adherence to policy is closely monitored and enforced. Platforms like FleetCommander build in policy communication and enforcement, ensuring drivers agree to current policies before getting behind the wheel. Another integral component of successful EV integration is in driver preparedness and acceptance. Fleet automation tools like FleetCommander address this need by providing built-in communication tools to share training and resources, especially when drivers are assigned an EV for the first time. This proactive educational approach helps mitigate driver apprehension and enhances overall fleet efficiency. Additionally, systems like FleetCommander utilize data analytics to identify instances where EVs are suitable but not selected, data that can guide both real-time policy adjustments and future vehicle procurement decisions. The role of data collection and analysis in the transition to EV adoption cannot be overstated. Automated systems like FleetCommander can generate customizable reports that aid in determining EVs’ utility in helping an organization comply with

various regulations and standards related to emissions and fuel usage. This feature is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability in both government and private operations. The road ahead: Realizing the potential of EVs in fleets Looking ahead, experts in the field anticipate a continued increase in EV adoption, with commitments from municipalities throughout the U.S. to fully transition to fully electric fleets by 2035 (or sooner). Innovations in battery technology, along with recharging infrastructure development, government incentives, and growing environmental awareness, are expected to continue driving this trend. Organizations that adopt EVs in their fleets are not only contributing to a greener planet but are also likely to see long-term economic benefits due to lower operating costs. The journey toward widespread EV adoption in fleet operations is filled with both promise and challenges. However, through the strategic application of fleet automation, these challenges can be effectively overcome. By integrating innovative technology, such as FleetCommander, with thoughtful policies and focused driver training, organizations can make significant strides toward a more sustainable and efficient future. The future of fleet management is electric, and with the right tools and strategies, it is well within reach. MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 11

On The Road Again

America’s Stonehenge

By JULIE YOUNG | The Municipal

While it may not be as well known as its English counterpart, America’s Stonehenge in Salem, N.H., is still an impressive rock group. Once known as “Mystery Hill,” America’s Stonehenge draws believers and skeptics alike and has been featured on shows such as “In Search Of…,” “Weird or What?” and “History’s Mysteries.” “America’s Stonehenge is an enigmatic and captivating archeological site,” said Vic Deadly in a Google review. “Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a place of intrigue, America’s Stonehenge offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the mysteries of the past.” A murky backstory Scattered across several acres of private property owned by Dennis Stone, America’s Stonehenge consists of a variety of stone huts, chambers and passageways as well as a 4.5ton “sacrificial” slab. There is also a perimeter formation of standing stones that aligns with a central observation deck to create what many believe to be an astronomical calendar.

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Stone’s father, Bob Stone, first heard about the property while getting a haircut in 1955. After seeing the stone formations for himself, he fell in love with the site and bought it. The origin, age and function of the rock and stone formations are hotly contested, and the scant scientific evidence that exists poses more questions than answers. Some people, including the Stone family, believe that prehistoric European settlers built the formations 4,000 years ago, giving it a possible connection with the famed English megalith as well as the seat of Phoenician society today known as Beirut, Lebanon. An insurance executive named William Goodwin, who owned the property in the 1930s, believed that 11th-century Irish Monks created the structures. He went so far as to

ABOVE: The 4.5-ton flat stone slab is a centerpiece of America’s Stonehenge in Salem, N.H. While its true purpose could range from lye leaching to apple pressing, some believe it was used for sacrificial offerings. Below the slab is an echo chamber complete with a tunnel that can project a voice from the “gods” or whoever was standing below. (Richard Haddad via Wikimedia Common; creativecommons.org/licenses/ by/2.0)

rearrange some of the stones to support his hypothesis. As a result of Goodwin’s tinkering, it may be impossible to know for sure which portion of the arrangements are original and what has been altered. A Harvard professor named Barry Fell looked into supposed inscriptions located on some of the stones and concluded that they were of Phoenician or Iberian origin. It should be noted that Fell’s expertise was in marine biology and not epigraphy, though, and his conclusions were met with great skepticism among the scientific community. Nonetheless,

America’s Stonehenge in Salem, N.H., boasts unique stone and rock formations that have puzzled scientists and archeologists for decades. Whether they were created in the 19th century or are significantly older, the roadside attraction is an intriguing place to spend the afternoon. (Stan Shebs via Wikimedia Commons; creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)

America’s Stonehenge is a unique rock and stone construction that includes chambers, tunnels and other nooks and crannies that fascinate visitors and conjure speculation about its origin story. Some believe it is 3,000 years old, while others say it was built in the 19th century. (Jtesla16 at wts wikivoyage via Wikimedia Commons; creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)

one of the rock carvings supposedly reads “To Baal on behalf of the Canaanites, this is dedicated.” Separating fact from fiction What is known about America’s Stonehenge is that the site served as a homestead and a rock quarry in the 19th century. Native American tribes were active in the area at one time, and charcoal found between the rocks was tested and found to be about 3,000 years old. Everything else is speculation. Some believe that John Patee, who lived on the property from 1825 to 1849, created the underground stone chambers to use as root cellars for food storage and the retaining walls as animal pens. Although it is intriguing to suggest that the large slab table with drainage rivulets could have been used for ancient sacrificial purposes, it is just as likely that it’s use was for making lye soap or serving as a colonial apple press. Curtis Runnels, an archeology professor at Boston University, visited America’s Stonehenge in the late 1980s. He remains skeptical of its supposed historical importance. When interviewed for an episode of the History Channel’s “Secrets of the Ancient World” in 2002, he said there is no evidence of Bronze Age artifacts near the site and that such a theory is little more than wishful thinking. “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence,” Runnels said. “What I want to see at America’s Stonehenge is a bronze ax of demonstrable European origin, in a form used in Europe 3,000 years ago, found in a sealed archeological layer. I guess I’m just a stick-in-the-mud. I want to see real evidence.” Sparking the imagination No matter where a person falls on the belief meter, a visit to America’s Stonehenge is an interesting place to spend the afternoon. Besides the historic stone formations, the roadside attraction offers on-site trails, alpacas, a museum, gift shop and the opportunity to take part in several

Once known as Mystery Hill, America’s Stonehenge has several rock formations and standing stones that some believe to be an astronomical calendar. Throughout the year, the property owner offers special events so guests can witness the spring and fall equinoxes as well as the summer and winter solstices. (Galibraryguy via Wikimedia Commons; creativecommons.org/licenses/ by-sa/3.0)

special events throughout the year. Travelers also won’t want to miss the total eclipse of the sun at America’s Stonehenge on April 8, 2024. Museum hours are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. every day, although the box office closes at 3 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 seniors and $9 for children ages 5-12. Memberships are also available, which give patrons unlimited access to the grounds during regular business hours. For more information, visit www.stonehengeusa.com M

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The city of Knoxville, Tenn., aims to have a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in city operations and an 80% reduction by 2050 for the community.

Fleet Service & Management

focus on:

50%

Read about the Knoxville’s fleet’s efforts to help meet reduction goals on page 30.

800 Madison, Wis.’s, consolidated fleet services building has more than 800 solar panels, which help to take care of 60% of the building’s power needs. Learn more about this award-winning structure on page 26.

63 Currently, 63 snow trucks are within Overland Park, Kan.’s, fleet. This number includes one medium-duty truck that will be used on a trial basis. Read about Overland Park’s snowfighting efforts on page 34.

$3.5 million 40

Initially this many applicants applied to Lubbock, Texas’, apprenticeship program, which helps employees get their commercial driver’s licenses.

Learn about Lubbock’s apprenticeship program and the partnerships that make it possible on page 22.

20,220 Number of garbage, recycling and yard waste go-backs with which waste management drivers in Houston, Texas, could assist each other in 2022 and 2023. The increase in cooperation was enabled by a new location alert program that solved the department’s problems with service interruption, inefficient routes and costly go-back calls. Source: https://www.nlc.org/article/2023/12/21/how-real-time-data-reshaped-houstonssolid-waste-department/.

Amount the utilities department of Colorado Springs, Colo., hopes to save annually by participating with the city in a switch from outsourced to in-house fleet maintenance. The switch happened Jan. 1 and was prompted by significant increases in a decadelong outsourcing contract. The expectation is that the change will give both agencies more control over costs and quality. Source: https://www.csindy.com/news/city-will-in-source-fleet-maintenance-afterdecade-long-private-contract/article_2f597d30-5d90-11ee-b356-ebd80f1504c4.html.

24+ Madison, Wis., has taken its electric fire department pumper truck on as many as 24-plus calls per day since it was purchased in 2021. It has gone out on a couple of thousand calls total and has never lost battery power during a call. Source: https://www.government-fleet.com/10204379/ can-electric-fire-trucks-meet-the-needs-of-todays-fire-departments.

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M Focus on: Fleet Service & Management

Bringing fleet maintenance back in-house

By BETH ANNE BRINK-COX | The Municipal

Colorado Springs, Colo., opted to bring its fleet of 5,000 vehicles back in-house and has hired dozens of workers to do so. It all happened according to plan and began right on time, Jan. 1 of this year. How did it happen so smoothly, and what made the city decide to go in this direction? Henry Martin, head of support services for the city with the responsibility of five other departments, said, “When I came aboard in September 2023, we had a five-year contract with five renewals, one for each year, and 2023 was our last year. So we had to take a look, anyway. We did that, took a look at competition for comparative pricing and so on, and what it would take. “Due to COVID, the cost of parts and maintenance had increased much more than anticipated. So we had several cost increases, in addition to contracted prices. One main 18 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

function is to hold costs down; what could we do internally? We ran the numbers, and we thought we could do it internally at the same or cheaper cost and have better control of our quality. With the city and Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) both, one challenge was that fleet diversity was very high: aerial trucks with buckets versus snowplows, very different vehicles. So we separated from CSU, and therefore, we could specialize, controlling quality.” In April 2023, a Colorado Springs government website post noted, “The City of

ABOVE: Colorado Springs worked hard to ensure everything was ready to roll on Jan. 1, 2024. (Photo provided by the city of Colorado Springs)

Colorado Springs and Colorado Springs Utilities are making an operational change to fleet maintenance. Since 2014, the City and Utilities have contracted with Serco for fleet maintenance services. Serco’s service obligations under the current contract expire at the end of 2023. Following a joint procurement process this year, Utilities decided to insource its fleet operations. As a result, the City reevaluated the situation and decided it was in its best interest to also insource its fleet operations, starting in January 2024.” What did the public think? Martin said, “We didn’t engage in questionnaires and so on. When we separated, there was a different mayor and some concern about losing jobs

and so on. But overall, I heard a very positive reaction. In November, we hired to help with interviews and hiring and so on. Five internal positions were repositioned for different roles; we had 42 altogether.” Martin stated, “It was important for us to ‘turn wrenches’ to provide the maintenance. They brought the trucks in on Dec. 27, so they could be ready to start Jan. 1.” Not having had much snow to speak of then, Martin said he really enjoyed seeing all the big trucks lined up in the garage, being serviced, and that it was a good feeling knowing they would be ready to go when the first heavy snow fell. “One of our main priorities was knowing city services would not have to be interrupted.” It’s part of the reasoning behind the decision to separate. “We wanted to be able to prioritize, balance cost versus quality and reliability,” he explained. These days, one of the best things a company can offer is benefits as soon as possible. The time of “90 days first” has fallen away for many companies, and Martin agreed. “Our packages start the first day of the month after you start, so if you started, say, Dec. 31, your benefits would take effect Jan. 1! Our attrition is better, because we can offer better benefits, and we could really bring people in and train them so they would stay on for years. It’s a better plus for quality work and for recruiting new hires.” In terms of approach, Martin said, “The good news is that we’re maintenance. I don’t have to plan and strategize, so I’m more reactive unless something goes down. This is my first time in the public sector, but I spent years in the private sector doing the same things. I really focused on price versus quality, and really understanding what a customer needs. I spent a lot of time talking to them, saying things like, ‘Let’s do a needs assessment. Do you really need an F-150? Would something smaller do everything you need?’ Those relationships that you build help them understand the needs. And when dealing with outsource vendors, it was more about what they were able to do versus what the customer needs. “We are continuing to outsource parts. They have a space in our warehouse and we integrated into asset management. Preventative maintenance is when we forecast for 30 days out. All the basic things, like wiper blades and fluids, the kinds of things that should

Not every city vehicle is big, and the cars need to be checked and serviced thoroughly so they, too, can perform to their best capacity. (Photo provided by the city of Colorado Springs)

Skilled hands work carefully to make sure every detail is perfect and every bit of the truck works as it should. (Photo provided by the city of Colorado Springs)

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 19

continued from page 19

always be on hand, those are ordered regularly.” Not purchasing the Serco stockpile saved the city a lot of money. “Inventory management is another big thing we looked into, so we wouldn’t have to spend millions of dollars on things we might not need.” Lean inventory management is very much a good practice these days; COVID, and the resulting supply shortages, meant that everything was going to — and did — cost more. The basic premise encompasses four methods: just-in-time management (JIT); materials requirement planning (MRP); economic order quantity (EOQ); and days sales of inventory (DSI). These have pros and cons; for example, if the supplier doesn’t have the JIT materials immediately on hand, it can bog A street sweeper is almost ready to go out and do the job it was designed for. (Photo proeverything down. Transportation can also be vided by the city of Colorado Springs) a factor. But when everything works properly, this is a good way for any company to save money and run smoothly. Martin feels very good about how this all fell into place. “We’ll audit and has a clear vision for the future of Colorado Springs — Martin is in the coming years, see how the figures add up. I’m excited to see this in charge of a program other cities may choose to emulate, if they first year’s totals, when it’s time.” Spoken as one who knows his skills haven’t already. ai170439026724_2024 01 Pelican Municipal half.pdf

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M Focus on: Fleet Service & Management

Lubbock’s apprentice CDL program boosts solid waste

By NICHOLETTE CARLSON | The Municipal

ABOVE: In order to bridge the gap between supply and demand for CDL drivers in the solid waste department, Lubbock, Texas, partnered with a local college and truck driving school to create a city apprentice program. Applicants are hired as apprentice heavy equipment operators and are then set on the path to receive their learner’s permits, take two weeks of classes and training and then test to earn their commercial driver’s licenses. (Photo provided by the Lubbock, Texas, Solid Waste Department) TOP PHOTO: Lubbock, Texas (Shutterstock.com) 22 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

In order to aid in bridging the supply and demand gap in the solid waste management department, the city of Lubbock, Texas, has created an apprenticeship program for employees while they get their commercial driver’s license. According to Brenda Haney, Lubbock’s director of solid waste, “CDL drivers are essential for the efficient collection and disposal of waste, but the industry had struggled to attract and retain qualified professionals. The solid waste department was looking to begin an apprenticeship, allowing us to hire people without commercial driver’s licenses and then train them for their CDL.” Since the city did not have the staff available to conduct the training, various driving schools nearby were researched. When the city looked into South Plains College, they discovered the college had an existing partnership with ATDS Truck Driving School. Meeting with South Plains College and ATDS Truck Driving School, it was agreed that ATDS would submit necessary paperwork to become licensed to offer a Class B CDL training program with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The partnership is three-fold between the

department numbers

city, South Plains College and ATDS Truck Driving School. Lubbock provides students and vehicles to use during the training, South Plains College manages the facility and enrolls employees in the class and ATDS provides the training and test for the appropriate CDL licensing. The need for an innovative program and partnership was seen as the solid waste department lost CDL drivers to the private sector and had difficulty hiring drivers who already had a CDL because of the high demand for drivers in the private sector. After the partnership between all parties formed, pay, job descriptions and responsibilities had to be established for the apprentice heavy equipment operators. It took a couple months between setting up these qualifications and beginning to hire candidates. Over 40 applicants initially applied for the positions. To qualify, an employee must be hired into the apprentice heavy equipment operator position. The city began with four employees at one time. After being hired, these new employees reported to the solid waste department for initial training. This training consisted of familiarizing the employees with their job duties and they began studying to receive their learner’s permit for their CDL. At the end of the first week, the employees receive their permit and are sent to school for two weeks of intensive training and driving. At the end of these two weeks, each employee is then tested to receive their license. Each of the candidates hired by the solid waste department passed their licensing exam. After receiving their license, the employee reports back to the solid waste department to train on waste collection, learning routes and working on their own. “The first students were enrolled in September 2022, and we have maintained this relationship ever since,” Haney described.

This apprentice program took Lubbock’s solid waste department from 65% staffing to 100% staffing and is still used today as needed to hire new recruits. Since the beginning of the program in 2022, approximately 20 people have become licensed in the program. (Photo provided by the Lubbock, Texas, Solid Waste Department)

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Once the program started, students were sent back-to-back to classes every two weeks until the solid waste department was fully staffed. “This has been a huge success for solid waste,” Haney stated. “We went from about 65% staffing to 100% staffing and maintained that for a very long time. We have had some subsequent retirements and such, but we continue to use the apprentice program to recruit new employees. One of the most rewarding components is the number of employees we have now — because of this — that would not have had the means to obtain a CDL. Single parents, new high school graduates, those just looking for a career change and many more from all walks of life are benefiting from this program. They appreciate the opportunity to have full time, stable employment and free training in a new career without having to leave home for long stretches of time like other CDL truck driving jobs.” There have been a total of about 20 operators licensed since the beginning of the program. The program continues to be used to hire on new apprentices as needed. “The community, including both customers and candidates, has been very supportive,” Haney emphasized. “Customers are because when we are fully staffed, their service is seamless. Candidates are because this presented an opportunity to work in an industry that is incredibly stable and rewarding and they earn a license that provides them a great career and future.”

The city of Lubbock provides the students and trucks, South Plains College enrolls employees in the class and the ATDS Truck Driving School provides the training and test. With this innovative partnership, the city is able to attract employees who may not have otherwise had the means to obtain a CDL. (Photo provided by the Lubbock, Texas, Solid Waste Department)

When you rely on SSI, you get quality safety lighting and accessories that keep your fleet on the road and your employees safe.

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M Focus on: Fleet Service & Management

Madison incorporates sustainability goals into fleet services building By JANET G. PATTERSON | The Municipal

When the $33 million Madison, Wis., fleet services building debuted in late 2020, it had already gleaned accolades for what it promised to do. The 116,000-square-foot building is home to to Joishy, and included more than 1,000 city the city’s maintenance shops, administrative staff, consultants and contractors. Those offices, a conference room, workout facilities years spanned several mayors and city counand a multipurpose room that the commu- cils. There were debates about funding and nity can use for activities such as voting. It what the building would include and where meets globally recognized standards of sus- it would be located. tainability by consuming less energy, using Ultimately, Joishy said the project was less water, having better indoor air quality, funded from Madison’s capital budget, and is part of the city’s commitment to sus- “which is where all new construction funds tainability and environmental responsibility. and new vehicle funds come from.” According to Madison’s fleet superintenThe facility merges a fire maintenance dent, Mahanth Joishy, the innovations in facility, the communications radio shop and sustainability have placed the capital of Wis- the fleet services facility. This combined-use consin in the world-class category. Planning facility reduces travel and response times and construction took nine years, according 26 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

ABOVE: Madison’s new fleet services headquarters has joined the ranks of world-class buildings with a LEED Gold rating. The building opened in December 2020. (Photo provided by the city of Madison, Wis.) between departments and improves operational efficiencies. The fleet services division manages and administers the municipal vehicle and equipment fleet, including maintenance, vehicle inspection and repair and replacement of city vehicles. The new facility provides both light and heavy vehicle service and repair spaces for the city’s fleet of public safety vehicles; emergency vehicles; public works vehicles and equipment; fire apparatus and other service automobiles; and trucks and other equipment.

When the new building was completed in 2020, it was named the No. 3 Greenest Garage in North America in December 2022 by the Fleet Management Association. It was also recognized as the first ever municipal auto garage in North America to be certified LEED NCv3.0 Gold by the U.S. Green Business Council. LEED certification is awarded after determining the building meets the requirements of the U.S. Green Business Council’s standards for energy efficiency in six major categories: sustainable site; water efficiency; energy and atmosphere; materials and resources; indoor environment quality; and innovation and design process. There are 69 possible points to qualify for one of four levels of certification: certified; silver; gold; and, the highest, platinum. According to city engineer James Whitney, architect for the city of Madison, “Green building design and sustainability design features include clerestory window daylighting, dimming daylighting controls, spray foam wall insulation, LED lighting systems, hydronic hot water floor heating, variable air volume heating and cooling system, solar hot water heating, an innovative passive heat solar wall and a rooftop solar electric photovoltaic panel system.” The design process for this building, he added, used the Focus on Energy Design Assistance Program that helped the city and design team during the design phase with “evaluations of energy saving strategies related to the selection of building envelope materials, lighting systems, and heating and cooling systems.” To add to the accolades, Madison’s vehicle fleet was named the No. 19 Government Fleet among 38,000 eligible teams in North America. The recognitions result from the city’s longrange climate plan that involves achieving net-zero operation of city buildings by 2030. The need for the new consolidated fleet operation became apparent to city leaders as the population increased to more than a quarter million, making Madison the second largest city in the state. In answer, the city considered how to make fleet operations more efficient than the several aging facilities that housed fleet headquarters, the radio shop and maintenance shops for various city fleet vehicles. The previous shop for repairing

The heavy equipment service area can accommodate 14 vehicles using the latest in maintenance technology. (Photo provided by the city of Madison, Wis.)

More than 800 solar panels help to take care of 60% of the fleet service building’s power needs. (Photo provided by the city of Madison, Wis.)

fire engines, for example, was not tall enough to accommodate modern fire equipment. Consolidating fleet operations, Joishy said, saves the city’s fuel costs by not having to shuttle vehicles to different locations for service. Besides the larger space in the new building, there is an abundance of windows to provide natural light to work areas and offices. In offices without windows, solar tubes through the roof help to augment the energy-efficient LED lighting. In work areas, such as the diesel repair shop, windows along the roofline let in natural light. More than 800 solar panels help to take care of 60% of the building’s power needs,

including hot water and heating in the winter. A radiant floor system keeps the heat closer to the floors in workshops, which increases the comfort level for mechanics. A solar wall helps trap the sun’s heat to provide additional heat for the workspaces. Another part of the city’s long-range energy plan is the introduction of energyefficient vehicles to the city’s 1,400 vehicles. The city recently accepted its 100th electric vehicle, a Ford Mustang Mach E, bringing its EV inventory to the most in the state of Wisconsin. Madison’s EV fleet includes Chevrolet, Nissan, Tesla, Ford and Chrysler, as well as three Metro Transit buses, and Caterpillar and Toyota forklifts. There are hybrid MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 27

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police cruisers and ambulances with onboard batteries that mean the crew can work while parked without the internal combustion engine running. Madison was the first in North America to include a Pierce Volterra prototype EV fire engine in its inventory. Additionally, all the city’s diesel vehicles run on at least soy biodiesel fuel from soybeans. Six solar-powered charging stations assist with keeping the electric vehicles powered up and on the road. Joishy’s pride in the project is clear, calling the building a “legacy project.” “On a projected timeline of up to 70 years, this building should serve the city till about 2090.” But Madison is not counting on one building to do it all. Joishy said the city expects in the near future to open a new facility across town on the far west side for both fleet and public works functions “to better serve that side of town.” When asked his favorite part of creating a world-class facility for Madison’s fleet, Joishy replied, “The environmental features, including over 800 solar panels, the solar heating wall and solar EV charging stations.” He added, “We have plenty of EV charging for the fleet, for employee personal vehicles and the public on one property. It is also a great place to work for all employees, including air quality technology and climate control, giving even temperatures throughout the (entire) facility.”

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The main entrance to the building features terraced planters, areas for outdoor gatherings and plenty of windows. (Photo provided by the city of Madison, Wis.)

In a podcast released at the time of the building’s opening, Jon Evans, city engineer and building design project manager, said the many energy-efficient features were as intentional as the ambiance of the building. “We wanted to reduce energy consumption, and we wanted an improved indoor environment to ensure it was a more pleasurable place to work.” M

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M Focus on: Fleet Service & Management

Infrastructure key to EV success Shutterstock.com

By DENISE FEDOROW | The Municipal

Knoxville, Tenn. (Shutterstock.com)

If the goal is to reduce carbon emissions and have more electric vehicles on the road, having the infrastructure in place to support these goals is key. One city that has taken strides in that direction is the city of Knoxville, Tenn. Dawn Michelle Foster, deputy director of the Knoxville Office of Sus- tailpipe emissions — especially in our underserved and overburdened tainability, said, “For more than a decade, the city of Knoxville has neighborhoods.” worked to make Knoxville a greener, more sustainable city — one Steps the city took to further this goal included adding EV charging where the economy, environment and community can thrive today stations free for the public to use. and in the future.” Foster said, “Currently, the city of Knoxville’s Office of Sustainability Foster added, “We set goals back in 2008 to reduce GHG (green- maintains 36 charging ports at 13 sites throughout the city. Basically, house Gas) emissions 20% by 2020 (baseline 2005), and we met those these locations are housed on city-owned properties (parks, public goals.” parking garages, event facilities, etc.) and are offered free to the public. But she explained Knoxville had increased its population, its new These free EV charging stations are within the Knoxville city limits.” businesses and housing, so the city council adopted two new goals in Overall, there are more than 50 public and private charging sta2001 to combat climate change. The first was to have a 50% reduction tions that drivers can access in the city of Knoxville and Knox County. in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in city operations and an 80% “However, most vendors are not installing charging stations in areas reduction by 2050 for the community. where barriers might keep drivers from considering EVs,” Foster said. According to Foster, Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon convened “To make sure that public services are distributed equitably, the city the Mayor’s Climate Council to identify and evaluate strategies to has developed two new tools — a public survey and a location suitabilachieve the goal of reducing emissions 80% across the community ity map to change the way we deploy EV charges in Knoxville. Using by 2050. our tools and combining it with a nearby city property or facilities “This task force brought fresh perspectives to past successes, pri- helps us to address range anxiety for EV drivers and reduce gaps for orities and lessons learned from other communities,” she said. “The charging availability in communities often overlooked.” outcome from MCC produced strategies for Knoxville’s 2021 Energy and Sustainability Work Plan per sectors (transportation, buildings/ City’s green fleet policy energy and waste).” The city of Knoxville adopted a green fleet policy in 2021, but Fleet According to Foster, transportation emissions in Knoxville in Services Director Nicholas Bradshaw said the city had already taken 2019 made up approximately 59% of the communities greenhouse steps prior to that. “It was pretty organic as market forces and desire from administragas emissions so officials came up with strategies to reduce GHG emissions, and the MCC “prioritized the acceleration of electric tion to embrace more green, sustainable principles,” Bradshaw said. vehicles to benefit the community health by reducing the amount of

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The city of Knoxville is currently undergoing an expansion of its fleet charging stations in the city garage to accommodate 30 EVs for the city’s fleet. The city’s contractor is placing conduit, wiring, junction boxes and a new transformer for the electrical upgrades for Level 2 charging. They expect the expansion to be completed in March or April. (Photos provided by the city of Knoxville, Tenn.) “We purchased our first EVs in 2018 — a couple of Nissans — but we really kicked it in high gear in 2021 when we adopted the green fleet policy,” he said. “The green fleet policy uses a total cost of ownership (TCO) model to evaluate future purchasing and the policy outlines a five-tier system where the highest, cleanest tier should be purchased if the technology is available,” Foster said. According to Foster, Tier 1 includes only zero-emission vehicles; Tier 2 is an alternative fuel vehicle; Tier 3 is a hybrid vehicle; Tier 4 is gasoline vehicles; and Tier 5 is diesel vehicles. Bradshaw was involved in creating the green fleet policy and said, “It’s a framework for how we consider green alternatives in our normal vehicle replacement — which we do every year. It makes us more intentional about selecting green alternatives.” He said the fleet replaces in the neighborhood of 150 vehicles of all shapes and sizes — they’re not all on-the-road vehicles as the figure includes lawn mowers, too. “The green fleet policy helped us pause and ask if there’s a green alternative, and if so, are they practical and affordable? And if the answer is yes, that’s what we do,” Bradshaw said. He gave the example of if the city needs to replace a 2018 Ford Fusion, it won’t necessarily replace it with another Fusion if there is a green alternative. “It’s not rocket science, but once we adopted the policy, we’ve made real progress over the last two years,” he said. Aside from electric vehicles, Knoxville also purchases vehicles that use other alternative fuels or are hybrids. When asked about heavy-duty equipment, he noted the fleet hasn’t replaced much diesel equipment. “There are some options available, but the expense and ROI are not there on the heavy stuff.” He said there are some smaller street sweepers available and added that “the heavy-duty truck industry is always 10 years behind, but they’ll get there!”

Knoxville’s electric vehicle fleet is all hooked up to the city’s charging station in the city garage. The city uses the 50 amp Blink-4 MQ200 charging stations. (Photo provided by the city of Knoxville, Tenn.) He added it’s a matter of being a good steward, too, stating that it makes more sense to add 20 sedans and pickups for half the price of one heavy-duty vehicle. The fleet services department has replaced mostly small, light-duty sedans that are not used for emergency purposes in departments like the inspection department, engineering department and parks and recreation. Performance-wise, Bradshaw believes the EVs are “as good or better than their traditional counterpart.” He added it might not be his first choice for long-distance trips across states, although it can be done with proper planning of one’s route. However, he said, “Everything we do is 99.9% done in town,

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and we’re done by the end of the day and can charge overnight. That alleviates any range longevity fears.” Bradshaw said the EVs are “cleaner and have less maintenance — you don’t have to change filters and fuel costs are nonexistent. So, it’s a good investment, especially these days. Earlier the premium upfront costs on the sedans were higher, but now it more than makes up that difference in lower maintenance and lower fuel costs. It’s a really good ROI.” Upfront costs for EVs are much closer to gas-powered traditional vehicles now, with Bradshaw noting, “It’s nothing like it used to be.” There are more options available as far as brands now, too, according to the fleet director. Bradshaw said the city has also added a couple of EV pickup trucks now that manufacturers have 150-type pickups that are more economical. With the supply chain, electric vehicles are in the same or better position. “We’ve been able to get our EV pickups and sedans in a few months — depending on the bid process — but I would not say it’s worse,” he said. Bradshaw reported the city has a total of 1,600 fleet assets, which include golf carts, lawn mowers, etc. “We’ve converted all of our zero-turn mowers to renewable propane — not electric — but it’s much cleaner and more affordable,” he said. Knoxville has approximately 20-25 electric vehicles on the road right now and about 120 electric golf carts, and it has converted to electric forklifts, too. “It seems everyone’s interested in on-the-road vehicles, but there’s more than that to having a green, sustainable fleet,” he said. “It’s a multipronged approach.” Bradshaw said the fleet did a study on the cost savings of replacing internal combustion engines with electric and found it saved 2/3 on maintenance costs and a lot of fuel savings. The study determined the fleet made its money back in six years — and that was back when the initial purchase price was higher. He said the city keeps vehicles for 10 years. Bradshaw determined the city is likely saving at least a couple of thousands of dollars per vehicle purchased. Each department has some EVs, and by the end of the year, every city department will have at least one electric vehicle. Knoxville has not yet replaced emergency vehicles but is working on procuring a police sedan. The concern during that process has not been for performance, but how to take in all the added expense of upfitting vehicles with light packages, etc. “You can’t do everything all at once, so we’re trying to be smart about it — methodical — so we started with a pilot and we’re moving forward,” he said. Bradshaw spoke at a national conference on the topic of fleet electrification and advised attendees, “Don’t be intimidated by it; be methodical and practical. Try to overcome anxieties; you don’t have to convert everything overnight — answer questions, give information and don’t get overwhelmed.” Foster shared that Bradshaw’s fleet department has been recognized the past four years as one of the 100 Best Fleets in American by the National Association of Fleet Administrators. In 2023, Knoxville’s fleet department was also recognized as one of the 50 Leading Fleets

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Pictured is one of the electric vehicles in the city of Knoxville’s fleet. The city plans to have EVs in every department by year’s end. (Photo provided by Nicholas Bradshaw, director of Fleet Services, city of Knoxville)

While Knoxville began by adding electric sedans to its fleet, it has recently started adding electric pickups like this Lightning from Ford. (Photo provided by Nicholas Bradshaw, director of Fleet Services, city of Knoxville)

in America by Government Fleet Magazine and the American Public Works Association. Foster concluded, “Capacity and reliability are necessary for the operation of a competent EV fleet. The Office of Sustainability has hired professional services for engineering designs for the electrical upgrades necessary to support the EV infrastructure for the city’s newest electrified EV fleet. The electrical upgrades and charging ports are estimated at $200,000. This project is funded by the department’s capital requests in the mayor’s FY 2022-2023 budget. We have not pursued grants for fleet EV charging and have focused grants for community EV charging opportunities.”

Indiana getting EV charging stations, too By DENISE FEDOROW | The Municipal The Indiana Department of Transportation is involved in the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, which was established through the federal bipartisan infrastructure law in 2021. A requirement of participating in the program was holding public information meetings this summer and adding EV charging stations along interstate routes. According to a July 10, 2023, News & Tribune article by Brooke McAfee, Scott Manning, deputy chief of staff at INDOT, said INDOT will award grants for the building of the charging stations and after grants were awarded, construction will begin early this year. Indiana is investing $100 million to add electric vehicle infrastructure, including in southern Indiana and along federally identified alternate fuel corridors. According to INDOT, site hosts for the charging stations could include hotels, gas stations and restaurants. As long as these sites are in the designated area, they’d be eligible for the NEVI funding. “We identify the route and the interchange, but when we put the site out for proposals, the grant recipients will actually identify the site hosts,” Manning said in the article. Each site is required to have a minimum of four charging ports but could have as many as six to eight.

In southern Indiana, the charging stations were being added to Clark and Floyd counties, among others. In northern Indiana’s St. Joseph and Elkhart counties, the Federal Highway Administration announced that the Michiana Area Council of Government is receiving $4.2 million to fill gaps in the EV charging infrastructure in rural and disadvantaged communities. According to a report in The Goshen News on Jan. 18, MACOG was one of 47 applicants nationally and the only one in Indiana selected to receive federal funding to strategically deploy publicly accessible EV charging stations. MACOG will oversee the construction of 14 Level 2 stations in rural areas and 18 in urban areas, as well as three Level 3 at South Bend International Airport and along US 30 in Plymouth and Warsaw. The cities of Goshen and Nappanee are also receiving funding for a Level 3 fast-charging station in Goshen and a Level 2 charging station in Nappanee. The Level 3 can recharge to 80% in about 20 minutes-hour, depending on the rate the vehicle can accept. About a third of the funding is dedicated to Level 2 destination stations — they can provide 25 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 2 charging stations are targeted to small towns and underserved areas where an investment in EV charging has not occurred.

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M Focus on: Fleet Service & Management

Midwest city unrolls new winter strategy

By JENNIFER BARTON | The Municipal

In 2011, a monstrous winter storm swept across the U.S., raging its way from New Mexico to the East Coast, dropping anywhere from 10 inches of snow all the way up to a maximum of 27 inches (recorded at Antioch, Ill.). Coupled with high winds, frigid temperatures, blowing snow and mixed precipitation, it took the lives of at least 36 people and caused millions of dollars in damage, including widespread power outages in numerous states. A severe ice storm that preceded it caused increased hazardous conditions across areas of the Midwest and into New England. Not every winter storm is as extreme as the Groundhog Day blizzard — named for its third and final day of destruction, Feb. 2 — but for those who live in areas where snowfall can be a winter expectation, cities need to plan for any amount of snowfall. Clearing 34 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

the streets of snow is critical for emergency personnel, utility workers who may need to repair storm damage and other essential workers, not to mention the remainder of the community. Overland Park, Kan., part of the Kansas City metropolitan area, is one such

ABOVE: So far the snow season has been harsh in Overland Park in 2024. Pictured is a snowplow clearing snow following a Jan. 9, 2024, storm. (Photo provided by the city of Overland Park)

place. Though snowfall amounts can vary greatly from year to year, the city of 200,000 people has faced its share of severe winter weather. To handle this, the city’s snowplow fleet must be in good order ahead of time. For that end, the city has added a new truck to the fleet this year, though as press time in January it’s not in commission yet. Meg Ralph, communications and media relations manager for the city of Overland Park, explained, “In October, our public works staff took an agenda item to our public works committee, which is the governing body committee that approves purchases for

public works equipment, and they approved the purchase of a medium-duty snow truck, which is a testament to the flexibility and additional solutions that our staff is looking for.” The major benefit of this new mediumduty truck rests in its flexibility. As it is a smaller truck, she reported drivers do not require CDLs to operate it. Though this is a trial year for the new truck, there is the expectation that if it performs well, it may be utilized in other capacities in other seasons. Additionally, different city departments, such as the parks department, which use similar trucks, might choose to invest in comparable equipment in the coming years. For its trial year, Mother Nature has been cooperative. The snow season has been harsh thus far in comparison to other years. Overland Park saw its first snowfall in late November, with totals of 1.8-2.2 inches, the second-highest accumulation in November in the past 10 years, according to the city’s website. Also, January has seen heavier snowfalls than other entire winter seasons, Ralph reported. “Oftentimes, our snowstorms begin with ice, so we have to be pretty flexible with our trucks and what we can use. We’re not just plowing; we’re often treating streets and then plowing.” Currently, 63 snow trucks make up the fleet for Overland Park, and they have been managing the early snowfall. Once the city’s first medium-duty truck is ready, it’ll join them in the endeavor. Depending on the severity of the storm and the day, public works endeavors to have the city’s streets cleared within a 24-hour time frame, Ralph said. Another factor into Overland Park’s decision to add a medium-duty truck into its winter fleet was cost. The city spent roughly $58,000 less on this particular vehicle than it would have spent on a larger truck. Ralph stressed the importance of calculating and considering the costs the city put into it. “When we talk about one of our core values, (it) is stewardship of taxpayer dollars and how can we get the same work done … at less of a cost. That is something that we’re trying to do.” And if it happens that the city goes a few years without a snowfall, the city has not invested as much money in a vehicle that would not see as much use in a year. The disadvantage is that the mediumduty truck holds less salt than its larger

Overland Park, Kan., snowplow driver Chris Gatewood clears snow following a January 2024 storm. (Photo provided by the city of Overland Park)

Overland Park currently uses 63 snow trucks to clear its streets and recently added a medium-duty truck to the fleet on a trial basis. (Photo provided by the city of Overland Park)

counterparts, so the city will be strategic about planning the routes for this snowplow. With just over 2,200 lane miles to cover in Overland Park, that means a lot of roads need to be plowed as quickly as possible or salted

in advance of a major storm event, quite the task for 62 heavy-duty and one medium-duty truck. But when lives may be on the line, the city trucks stand ready for Mother Nature’s winter fury. M MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 35

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Parks & Environmental Services

Evansville finds a good fit in skate park By LAUREN CAGGIANO | The Municipal

Evansville, a city nestled in southwestern Indiana, welcomed a new addition to its recreational landscape in December. Sunset Skatepark, a public-private partnership, has already proven itself to be a community asset and a gathering space for skateboard enthusiasts as well as other members of the community. According to Evansville Parks and Recreation Executive Director Danielle Crook, the idea for Sunset Skatepark can be traced back to organizing efforts led by Heather Vaught, a dedicated community advocate and small business owner. Crook said the project gained momentum during the last two years thanks partly to Vaught’s influence. “She was able to connect with the city and spearhead fundraising efforts, which helped the project pick up steam,” Crook said. “In conjunction with city funding, Vaught and others brought this project to life.” The park itself is owned and maintained by the parks department. Crook said this ensures accessibility to the public at all times. The partnership between the city and community advocates is a model that has proven effective, fostering community engagement and support.

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ABOVE: Sunset Skatepark is a testament to community advocates who wanted to ensure that the city had a safe place for skaters and bikers to practice their sport.

In hindsight, Crook said the outcome has been more favorable than initially anticipated. “Residents of the neighborhood were very concerned about the park being built and noise and inappropriate activity,” she said. “I feel like even the most intense neighbor has been pleasantly surprised. It’s a good example of how an asset like a skatepark really does help improve the community. I don’t know that everybody anticipated that, but the skateboarding community did.” Speaking of expectations, Crook said the park offers an open invitation to anyone interested in using the space. Among its unique features is an inclusive design, accommodating users of all ages and skill levels. The design was executed by Hunger Skateparks and incorporates thoughtful elements like a sunset-themed bowl, reflecting the park’s namesake and enhancing the overall experience.

She noted that the park’s popularity is evident by consistent usage even during off-peak hours. According to her, this level of activity at the site bodes well for the neighborhood’s future. “If somebody is utilizing it and its features are activated, it’s a lot less likely to fall victim to graffiti and vandalism,” she said. “And I think the location, on the riverfront near the water treatment plant cascade feature and Mickey’s Kingdom Park, helps, too. “Everybody has been very respectful and just so appreciative to have this amenity.” Building on the momentum, Crook said her department aims to enhance the community experience by providing free skateboarding lessons. Because it is so important to the city that the park remains open to the public, the parks department also plans to introduce educational and recreational programming. She emphasized that the staff plans to exercise due diligence to avoid over-programming and potential disruptions to public access. The project was well executed, according to Crook. Still, there were some challenges during the planning, including timeline adjustments and coordination with grant requirements. In the end, Sunset Skatepark’s development was relatively smooth compared to other community projects. Crook and her team learned the importance of valuing community input and adapting to changing circumstances. This project is not fluid, but one that’s dynamic by design. Looking ahead, Crook plans to finalize outstanding aspects of the project

The 26,000-square-foot Sunset Skatepark in Evansville is Indiana’s largest. It cost $1.7 million to build, including more than $800,000 in private funds.

such as installing benches and exploring options for organized events. Ultimately, the community’s input remains a crucial factor in shaping the future of Sunset Skatepark, ensuring its continued success as a dynamic and inclusive space. For instance, according to Crook, there’s not an established rental rate. That might change if and when it makes sense to the parks department. “We didn’t want to close it off for events. We want it to always be open to the community,” she said. “So, as of right now, we’re not planning on doing any special events or anything like that. But it’s also new and being navigated currently.” The success of Sunset Skatepark will be measured through various metrics, including usage statistics, community feedback and ongoing engagement. As warmer temperatures arrive, a clearer picture of the park’s impact on the community will emerge. In the meantime, Crook said she and her team welcome insights from the public. “So far it has all been positive, but I know that it’s never all positive. At some point, we’ll get other feedback. And we’re here for it.” M MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 39

Building & Construction

Norman remodels bank into transit center By NICHOLETTE CARLSON | The Municipal

Four and a half years ago, the public transportation system of Norman, Okla., underwent a change in management from private — run by a university — to municipal, as the university wanted to shift its focus to exclusively campus transit. Since that time, the city has remodeled a downtown building into a transit center. Various upgrades were made to the building, and a major route change was implemented. While the city inherited the old bus fleet from the university, it has since replaced 17 of the 28 buses. Two of the buses are now electric, making them the first city-owned electric vehicles. The existence of the new transit center has also allowed the city to transfer municipal employees who had previously worked in leased university space. “The transit center and route changes have been the jewel of the last four years,” Taylor Johnson, transit and parking program manager, stated. A consultant updated the long-range transit plan in conjunction with suggestions harvested from public meetings. Many of the city routes were previously large, looped routes: Today the city has bidirectional routes, meaning that a bus leaves the transit center, runs 40 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

ABOVE: Once the city took over the city transit system, they knew there were some changes they wished to make. This included route changes and a new transit center. In October 2023, the remodeled bank turned transit center held its ribbon cutting. (Photo provided by the city of Norman, Okla.)

its route, then turns around at the end of the route and comes back along the same path. This allows residents a more direct route to and from their destinations and can decrease the amount of time spent on the bus as compared to a looped route. “We felt strongly about making the routes bi-directional,” Johnson commented. “While we did lose coverage in some areas, we see it as a choice of making transit better for the majority. Now that the transit center and route changes are implemented, I am excited to see how passengers and community respond to them.” As the city reviewed available properties with an eye toward creating the transit center, a council member offered an old bank building for consideration. The bank was ultimately chosen as the site. The Norman Transit Center utilizes the bank’s six drive-up bays, and buses are able to fit under the already-constructed roof. The location is on a side street but near downtown.

The seller was willing, and the city saw the situation as a great reuse option with no eminent domain concerns. The building was purchased in April 2022 and the city spent until December or January working up the design. In February 2023, a contractor was hired, and in March 2023 work began. A grand opening took place Oct. 16, 2023. The front area of the former bank is an indoor lobby with seating area, and offices for transit employees are located in the back. An indoor public restroom was created, necessitating another big improvement: water access. In order to run water lines to the old university transit center, it would have cost $30,000. The new location has a water fountain and water bottle filling station. “We wanted to make improvements with the new transit center,” Johnson described. “The previous transfer station worked, but it was not ideal in the amenities provided. We wanted to increase the number of people using transit by giving them the amenities they wanted and deserve.” A few issues were encountered during the remodeling process. One of the greatest was the need for remediation of asbestos. Problems also popped up after the sewer lines were reopened: Due to increased use, the already-rusted lines clogged and had to be replaced. The transit center had to be closed for about a month to replace all the pipes and install a grinder pump. “Nothing comes easy with an older-building remodel,” Johnson said. “I am thankful that we were able to work through those issues and get the transit center open for our passengers and staff.” Funding for the projects came from a variety of sources. Replacement of the buses was made possible through grants, as was the transit maintenance and operations facility. The center was locally funded, and the department had to request a capital budget. The city spent approximately $1 million on the remodel, not including the purchase price. It was all done without any missed days of service. “I am excited about how far we have come in a short amount of time and look forward to the future of transit in Norman,” Johnson said. M

One of the most important parts of getting a new transit center was being able to give residents some of the amenities they wanted and deserved. This included indoor seating, a public restroom and water access. This newly renovated transit center gives riders all of these. (Photo provided by the city of Norman, Okla.)

A new bi-directional route system helps to cut down the amount of time transit users have to sit on the bus. It travels down its route, turns around at the end and then comes back to the transit center the same way. (Photo provided by the city of Norman, Okla.)

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 41

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Crisis Management

Mountain town looks out for its seniors

By JANET G. PATTERSON | The Municipal

Every year by mid-January, the residents of Silverton, Colo., have been under several avalanche alerts and faced numerous power failures lasting from a few hours to most of the day. Depending on which side of the mountain they live on, they may have also become snowed-in a few times. Such conditions are a fact of life, explained DeAnne Gallegos, spokesperson for the San Juan County Emergency Management team. In fact, for two days this January, the one road in and out of Silverton was closed. “Those of us who live here actually kind of enjoy the weather. We think of others are being snowed-out when we’re snowed-in.” Awareness and preparation seem to be keys that the rugged folks of Silverton embrace. Tucked in a lofty mountain valley in the southwest corner of Colorado, just north of New Mexico in the San Juan mountains, the 800 full-time residents of city know well how to weather the weather. 44 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

During the height of winter, access to the town is pretty much limited to one way in and one way out. The Highway 550 mountain corridor is it, and can be closed for days at a time. If residents are snowed-in they have to be prepared with several days’ food and water, plenty of batteries and some way to power and heat their home. If they’re snowed out, they are told to have an overnight bag in their vehicle with necessary medications, a change of clothes, a phone and charger, and money to pay for lodging until the roads reopen.

ABOVE: Snow blankets Silverton, the only town in San Juan County, one of the smallest in Colorado. (Photo provided by Silverton, Colo.)

“Sometimes people will be able to stay with friends if they can’t get home,” Gallegos added. Since cellphone signals can be spotty in mountain passes, a life-saving piece of equipment is a satellite communication device. The device sends an SOS signal if a person is stranded. It also has the capacity for two-way communication. The greatest danger in the area surrounding the 19th century mining town is avalanches. Massive snow slides during or after snowstorms can close the three nearby mountain passes for as many as 30 days a year. In 2019, an avalanche dumped nearly 40 feet of snow on one of the local roads. “We can have as many as 20 to 30 days or more each year when the passes are closed one direction or the other,” Gallegos said. On

Heavy snow is a way of life for people in Silverton, Colo., which sits at more than 9,000 feet above sea level. (Photo provided by Silverton, Colo.) an average there are seven to 10 days a year when the roads are fully closed. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center issues warnings for areas of the state on a one to five scale, with one being the lowest risk and four and five warning people that the risk of an avalanche in a particular area is high. When the risk level is at five, or “extreme,” Gallegos said the message is “do not be touring in the back country.” But life in Silverton is not all about the danger lurking in those mountains. “We are an 86% tourism-based economy,” she said. During the winter, a few hundred parttime residents move into Silverton to take advantage of the skiing. In the summer, the population triples with tourists who enjoy hiking, trekking, off-roading and other activities in the surrounding mountains. “It’s a really healthy lifestyle here.” While it’s important to be able to live a self-sustaining lifestyle, Gallegos noted that Silverton has a “healthy and thriving senior population” numbering more than 100 people. Without a doctor, nursing home or hospital in town, and with the thin air at 9,318 feet, being healthy is key to staying independent and continuing to live in Silverton, she said. With an ambulance on call, helicopter

transportation to the hospital in Durango and a handful of paramedics who are trained to handle medical emergencies, Silverton residents have to be conscientious about not having a complete array or medical services immediately available. One of the hallmarks of life in Silverton is the number of senior-driven programs. Silverton’s senior center is an asset for keeping older residents engaged and active. “We have a counselor who checks on our seniors regularly, and we do a once-a-week free lunch so they can gather and we can keep an eye on them, and we can make sure they’re doing well,” Gallegos said. In the winter, there is a shoveling program to ensure that snowed-in doesn’t mean unable to get out the door. Gallegos added that one of the ways Silverton is working on ways to make life even healthier for all residents is the construction of a geo-dome for growing vegetables year-round. A Facebook page for the senior center announces events and asks for assistance in picking up a prescription for a resident or providing transportation to Montrose or Durango, which are about an hour’s drive. Gallegos said the town also uses the Nixle communication system to provide realtime alerts to local residents about weather

A Silverton Medical Rescue crew sets up equipment to do an avalanche rescue. Residents are advised to carry tracking devices when traveling the roads of the San Juan mountains. (Photo provided by Silverton Medical Rescue) conditions, road hazards, wildfires and other critical events that can affect health and safety. Helping people live better in Silverton also prompted the creation of a resiliency goals effort to reach local residents. “We want to get government offices and the community on propane generators so that they have a backup source of heat and power,” she explained. The town has already installed propane generators in places like the senior center to create warming stations for anyone who does not yet have a backup source. The resiliency campaign includes simple tips for residents such as making sure they have clean drinking water in an emergency; not using a gas stove to heat the house; having extra batteries for flashlights, clocks and radios; and keeping the refrigerator door closed to save the food inside. Gallegos, a self-proclaimed “mountain girl,” grew up in Denver but moved to Silverton, where she had spent time with her grandparents during her youth. She said living in a tiny mountain town means that Mother Nature often determines how people live, but that the real reward is living in harmony with Mother Nature.

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 45

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Streets, Highways & Bridges

‘Takin’ it to the Streets’ in Tennessee

By JULIE YOUNG | The Municipal

Located just blocks from the heart of downtown Columbia, Tenn., the Columbia Arts District is a thriving hotspot. The locale sports a brand-new look, thanks to a $2.1 million South Garden Streetscape Enhancement Project. “This project was the culmination of a communitywide, community-driven and community-input process, and the beneficiary will be the community as a whole,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder in a press release. The city of Columbia historically served as the social, economic and cultural center of south-central Tennessee: The Columbia Arts District had become a big part of that legacy. Established as a haven for artists and artisans to gather in an eclectic mix of contemporary creative culture, the vibrant neighborhood has flourished since its development in 2016. Today it offers something for locals and visitors alike, no matter if a person is looking to eat, shop, stay or play. 48 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

However, the area lacked an identifying gateway that would welcome guests and encourage them to spend some time. That changed in 2018, when the city council asked Ragan Smith of Ragan Smith and Associates to create a long-term Columbia Arts District master plan. Smith was no stranger to neighborhood makeovers, especially in Columbia. He served as the engineering consultant during implementation of the city’s award-winning West Seventh Multimodal Streetscape project, which used a strengths, weaknesses, opportunity and threats analysis, along with community stakeholder input, to determine what should be included in the master plan and which elements should be prioritized. In

ABOVE: The Columbia Arts District Streetscape project includes public art, a reconfigured South Garden Street and improved walkways to make it more pedestrian friendly. (Photo provided by Columbia, Tenn.)

2019 the city council adopted that plan. The result was ADA-compliant sidewalks, the creation of public gathering areas, the possibility of a future outdoor event venue or greenspace and the South Garden Streetscape Project. Improved pedestrian corridor The South Garden Streetscape Project was designed to shape the transportation corridor that leads to the Cultural Arts District, located between Carmack Boulevard and Depot Street. The project included reengineering South Garden Street as a one-way street up to West 11th Street, upgrading the roadway and realigning an intersection at Carmack Boulevard. The project also created areas for public art installations and social

gatherings: New benches and lighting were installed, and aesthetic improvements were made that included the relocation of utilities to the west side of South Garden Street. In addition, there are several small businesses located near a re-worked pedestrian corridor that now features improved parking opportunities. Planners involved in the $2.1 million undertaking expressed hope that it would encourage additional economic growth in the area. Construction began in December 2022 and was completed a year later. “The project provided an updated and more aesthetically pleasing gateway to the Columbia Arts District, in addition to other traffic related improvements and efficiencies,” Molder said. “It resulted in a more walkable main corridor within our Arts District, which will include public art installations in the future. This will further enhance the district and lead to an even more vibrant arts scene in our community. A project like this has a direct impact on improving the quality of life of Columbia residents.” Additional momentum Besides the South Garden Streetscape Project, the city was awarded a $630,000 Community Development Block Grant from the Tennessee Economic and Community Development Department. Columbia was one of nearly 50 municipalities to benefit from a share of the $23 million in CDBG funds designed to serve low- to moderate-income people and enhance the connectivity of their neighborhoods to downtown districts. A total of $830,150 from CDBG and city funds were used to make sidewalk improvements along East 8th Street and South High Street, which also serve the Columbia Arts District. The Cultural Arts District is a unique part of the city that attracts a wide range of people. Those who live in the area or frequent it on a regular basis are reportedly thrilled with the improvements and eager to see what’s next. “The reaction to this project has been overwhelmingly positive, in large part because of the community input that went into the Arts District Master Plan and included this update,” Molder said. “When the public has a say in a project like this, the project is better off — and so is the community as a whole.” M

This mural is only one of the public art installations that will be part of the Columbia’s Arts District long-term master plan. The city recently made some improvements to the area as part of a $2.1 million streetscape project. (Photo provided by Columbia, Tenn.)

The South Garden Streetscape is part of Columbia’s long-term strategic plan for the city’s Arts District, which includes infrastructure upgrades, public seating and more gathering spaces for residents and visitors alike. (Photo provided by Columbia, Tenn.)

LEFT: The South Garden Streetscape project welcomes visitors with new public seating. (Photo provided by Columbia, Tenn.)

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 49

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Municipal Management

Florida city selected for international collaboration on sustainability By BETH ANNE BRINK-COX | The Municipal

Recently, Coral Springs, Fla., became one of 24 cities selected for the Cities Forward Program. It was chosen out of 129 applications from across the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. Of the cities selected to participate, 12 came from the U.S. and the other 12 came from Latin America and the Caribbean. What is the Cities Forward Program, exactly? According to coralsprings.gov, “Through the program, cities in the U.S. are paired with another city in Latin America or the Caribbean, to share local expertise and global perspectives. Coral Springs, the site adds, “has been paired with Freeport, Bahamas, and we plan to work closely with their Andrea Lemaitre sustainability representatives to share ideas and projects that will, collectively, strengthen sustainability efforts.” It was selected to participate based on its commitment to urban sustainability, resilience and inclusion. Cities Forward is the U.S. Department of State’s flagship urban sustainability initiative, led by ICLEI USA — formerly International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives — with support from Resilient Cities Catalyst and Institute of the Americas. Coral Springs Sustainability Manager Dr. Andrea Lemaitre explained that the goal of the Cities Forward initiative is to help participating cities implement solutions that advance investments in urban services that promote sustainability, inclusivity and resilience in neighborhoods and communities. “Through Cities Forward, local leaders will build capacity through shared knowledge to address common challenges.” Coral Springs applied to Cities Forward with the hope of engaging in international collaboration and dialogue because the city is committed to sustainability.

52 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

As part of the Forward City initiative, Coral Springs, Fla., has been paired with Freeport, Bahamas. The two cities will collaborate throughout the program to enhance the well-being of their communities. (Photo provided by Andrea Lemaitre, Coral Springs, Fla.)

“It is embedded within the city’s strategic goals and mission. In 2021, the Office of Sustainability and sustainability manager positions were created within the greater Department of Budget and Sustainability. Often, cities, such as Coral Springs, are not perceived to be at the frontlines of climate change — in comparison to neighboring coastal communities. However, the city is located only 10 miles west of the southeast Florida coastline and directly borders the Florida Everglades, so it is imperative that cities such as Coral Springs are recognized for and lead in sustainability and resiliency to create proactive, healthy and prosperous communities as opposed to reactive and vulnerable communities.” As sustainability manager, Lamaitre said she knew Cities Forward was a wonderful opportunity to share her city’s experiences on a global scale and bring innovative practices back to local residents and city operations. Cities Forward is a three-year program. During years one and two, U.S. cities will engage in peer-to-peer knowledge exchange

and thematic workshops with subject-matter experts. From June 2025 to February 2026, Coral Springs will participate in the Cities Forward Academy and share experiences with academy participants. At least 50 additional cities will be selected to participate in the Cities Forward Academy. “The Sustainability Action Plan (SAP) is a city-wide strategy to be implemented by local government, community partners, and residents,” Lemaitre shared on the Coral Springs’ website. “The first SAP was adopted in 2022 and outlines the focus areas, goals, and objectives of the Office of Sustainability. The overarching goals of the SAP are to: (1) reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and (2) ensure the financial, operational, and environmental sustainability of City programs, projects, and policies.” The four primary focus areas of the Sustainability Action Plan are: energy and innovation; building green; resource management and conservation; and economic and community vitality. While Lemaitre is deeply involved in the here and now, she is also able to look down the road. “Coral Springs is paired with Freeport, Bahamas. We look forward to collaborating throughout the program to enhance the well-being of our communities and advance our respective climate and sustainability plans through knowledge exchange. “One of the primary points of discussion is severe weather and hurricane preparation, which impacts both cities. We are also grateful to engage with the host institutions and other participating cities. This group of leaders represents a diverse wealth of knowledge from across the United States and Latin America and the Caribbean.” Lemaitre’s background as a scientist is in urban development and governance, water insecurity and environmental health is suited to the opportunity that lies before Coral Springs. “My experiences have shown me the importance of both highlighting and bridging municipal governance with national and international governance and policies. By bringing diplomacy to the municipal level, Cities Forward provides a unique opportunity to situate local needs within a global context — which is necessary for true success in sustainability and resiliency,” she said. “The capacity-building resources and partnership opportunities provided by ICLEI, the Institute of the Americas, U.S. Department of State and Resilient Cities Catalyst will help the city of Coral Springs maximize the potential of its Sustainability Action Plan.” Asked where other cities might begin such a project, Lemaitre explained, “Sustainability and resilience are collaborative, strategic endeavors. By creating an Office of Sustainability and subsequent Sustainability Action Plan, Coral Springs enhanced its long-standing commitments and was able to implement clear objectives and goals. “In addition to a clear strategy and dedicated staff, the success of sustainability relies on collaboration. In Coral Springs, the sustainability manager partners with all departments internally and residents and stakeholders externally.” Lemaitre added, “U.S. participants in Cities Forward build capacity through knowledge exchange, diplomacy and technical expertise via conferences and thematic workshops led by participants and subject matter experts. There are no financial or

This Cities Forward graphic shows which selected cities will work together as part of the initiative. (Photo provided by Andrea Lemaitre, Coral Springs, Fla.)

The brainstorming begins during a kickoff meeting. There is no such thing as a bad idea when everyone has the best interests and intentions at heart. (Photo provided by Andrea Lemaitre, Coral Springs, Fla.)

physical resources or sponsorship expectations or commitment of U.S. cities for participating in Cities Forward.” For further information on Coral Springs’ engagement with Cities Forward, visit www.coralsprings.gov/sustainability. For more information on the international initiative, visit https:// icleiusa.org/cities-forward/.

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 53

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Technology

Iowa DOT tests out new snowfighting technology In February 2023, the Iowa Department of Transportation began experimenting with various new technologies on its plows to ensure safety for its drivers and the public simultaneously. Recently, it purchased and implemented new whip lights to assist with visibility while plowing in harsh conditions.

Whip lights brightly illuminate plows, especially at night. (Photo provided by Iowa Department of Transportation) 56 THE MUNICIPAL | MARCH 2024

By DANIELLE LUND | The Municipal

Places that get more snow are continually considering new ways to improve the safety and experience of their plow employees and the public as well. Specifically, Iowa’s department of transportation has researched and implemented a technology called whip lights, which are special LED light bars between 18 and 24 inches long, which attach to the top of the plow to illuminate the path in front of the workers more clearly, as well as to show the plow margins to other oncoming motorists. These lights have been programmed to glow a bright amber color, but they can also be changed to white or blue as needed. To gain some further insight into the effectiveness of these new lights, Tina Greenfield Huitt of the Iowa’s DOT Maintenance Bureau was available to answer some questions about the new technologies. In an interview, she mentioned, “These lights are not entirely new to us this year. We have used them (whip lights) on the sides of our wind and tow plows over the past few years, and now we want to include them on our snow plows as well. This will be the first year that we install the lights on the front of the snowplows.” Additionally, in February 2023, the DOT wrote an article on its website to express the importance of this technology for both its employees and community’s safety. Greenfield Huitt also commented here, saying that “One of our goals when we’re plowing these roads is to expose the paint lines, especially the center line. That means we’re plowing very close to oncoming traffic. The easier it is to see where the plow is working, the safer we’ll all be when we share the road.” Before implementing whip lights on the whole fleet of over 900 plows the DOT tested these lights on a smaller scale and experimented with 18 plows, all of which were dispersed throughout the state. These 18 plows were given the whip lights on the front of the plows, and the drivers of those trucks were asked to provide feedback. At the time of writing this article, the state had not yet experienced any large amounts of snow, but Greenfield Huitt mentioned that the drivers who had used them on their minimal snowfall days had been able to offer information that will be used to tweak the setup prior to the bigger snowfalls hitting the state any day. The funding for this small experimental phase of the project is coming from the Office of Maintenance’s budget. The company being used to provide these lights is called Blizzard Dynamics, and it has an ample amount of information supporting the use of these lights on its website. For this project, each of the whip light units purchased cost about $260 per plow. The initial investment cost the department close to $5,000. If the evidence from the test phase of the whip lights shows improvement in safety, Greenfield Huitt hopes that the DOT will be able to add the lights to the majority of their 900 plow fleet. If this is adapted, the additional funds for the project will have to be discussed and accounted for within the equipment funding. Greenfield Huitt also mentioned the addition of heated windshield wiper blades on the plows as well. She stated, “So much of what our snowplows push through comes up over the hood of the cab and onto the windshield. That

This extended plow relies on flags for added visibility. (Photo provided by Iowa Department of Transportation)

Snowplow drivers aim to clear road markings, such as center lines. For this reason, providing added visibility of plow locations increases safety for drivers and the public. (Photo provided by Iowa Department of Transportation)

means our snowfighters have significantly more visibility issues than the average vehicle.” This technology would be another safety measure for drivers to ensure that they do not need to stop their plows and manually get out to fix their windshields, which is an extremely dangerous practice. Iowa’s DOT is committed to ensuring the safety of their snowfighters and civilian motorists, and will continue to research and implement various measures whenever possible. Greenfield Huitt said that this is just the beginning for their advancements. MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 57

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Truck Diagnostics and Equipment

Support Tel: 443-380-0088 Sales Tel: 844-322-7872 Web: www.fcarusa.com www.bludee.com

The FCAR has been a major asset to the Town of Kent in its ability to diagnosis our full line of equipment. It covers passenger cars all of our emergency vehicles and the Police departments variety of vehicles from Chevrolet to Ford and heavy duty equipment including Mack plow trucks and Refuse trucks. Full line of international trucks and all our off road equipment. Cat loaders and backhoes, bobcat excavators and skid steers to mention a few. We are able to see fuel rail pressure and ABS signals for accurate repairs. The Mack truck functions are proven to be useful and money saver in forced regeneration which in the past had to be towed back to the manufacture. What a time and cost saving tool. Not only are drivability concerns diagnosis but transmission ,body modules controlling HVACs functions and brakes have a broad coverage. The tool is so user friendly and is powered by the vehicle or equipment you are plugged into. Bidirectional capabilities make it useful as an OEM tool. I have already substantiated my ROI.The customer service and support team makes the experience a completely satisfied one and you are not forgotten after the initial sale. Great job and great product. I highly recommend to add this to your tool box!

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-----Nicholas Mancuso, Service Manager, Municipal Repairs Town of Kent

MARCH 2024 | THE MUNICIPAL 59

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