SE Wisconsin’s first significant snowfall on Thursday caused messy and dangerous commutes, prompting frustration among drivers who expected better road preparation.
Many commuters contacted TMJ4 News to express concerns about the apparent lack of salt trucks and plows. Sean Devlyn, a morning commuter, described hazardous conditions with vehicles spinning out or stuck along highways.
I started my day at like 7 a.m. and the roads were miserable, said Devlyn.
Jennifer Bryant echoed similar frustrations, questioning the lack of pre-treatment despite weather warnings. “For the last week, we heard that snow was coming… I felt like they could have better prepared for it.”
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation noted that counties use salt and brine for road treatments. However, worsening conditions in Waukesha County left salt trucks struggling on inclines and contributed to a spike in crashes. By 10 a.m., over 150 incidents had been reported to 911 dispatchers.
In Milwaukee, where concerns were also raised, TMJ4 reporter Ryan Jenkins brought commuters’ complaints to the Department of Public Works DPW.
Jeffery Smith, DPW Sanitation Area Manager, explained: “It was bare pavement last night… We would not put salt on bare pavement and pre-salting is usually for larger events.”
Milwaukee officials confirmed that salt and brine operations were underway by Thursday morning, with underbelly plows clearing slush. However, they argued that the snow accumulation didn’t warrant larger plows.
For frustrated drivers like Devlyn, the response wasn’t enough: “I would’ve liked to see at least one truck out putting down salt I saw plenty of cops out trying to help people but no plows.”
road conditions? Share your thoughts or tips with TMJ4 News at tmj4.com/tips.