City of Bend benefits from mild winter with reduced street wear and snow fund savings

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) Bend's mild winter allowed city projects to proceed without interruption and facilitated more effective street maintenance. The less severe weather meant reduced wear on city streets and enabled crews to use longer-lasting hot mix for pothole repairs. Summer road projects are scheduled to begin as early as this week.

The light winter conditions minimized the need for extensive plowing, which in turn reduced wear and tear on the city's street infrastructure. This also allowed crews to make more permanent pothole repairs using hot mix, a method typically not feasible during snowy conditions. The City of Bend additionally saw savings in its snow fund, which is designated for a two-year period.

David Abbas, Director of Transportation and Mobility for the City of Bend, noted that city staff were able to undertake tasks such as tree trimming and vegetation management. This work included improving sight lines to stop signs and other areas. Abbas stated that staff continues to work regardless of the winter's severity, just on different tasks.

Even with less snow, some potholes still formed due to the continued use of studded tires and the natural freezing and thawing cycles. However, city crews were able to address these issues more effectively.

The savings on materials like rock salt and de-icer from the mild winter can roll over to the upcoming winter season if needed, given that the snow fund is allocated for two years.

Many road projects are set to commence as early as this week as Bend enters the summer season.