ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — While many Quad Cities residents are enjoying the colors of fall, sooner or later, the snow's going to start coming down — and plow drivers in Rock Island are already preparing to answer the call when the times comes.
On Nov. 9, drivers working for Rock Island Public Works participated in their annual "Snow Road-eo" competition. There are three phases to the contest: a written exam, an obstacle course and a vehicle inspection. While there may not be snow on the ground just yet, officials say that getting time behind the wheel now will be a big help later on.
“For some of our drivers, this is the first time they will operate a snow plow since being hired this year. This helps them be better prepared to operate the snow plow equipment," Public Works Director Michael Bartels said.
While the training helps make sure that plow drivers are ready to hit the streets, officials with Rock Island Public Works say there are still things everyday residents can do to make their jobs easier.
"Anything you can do to move your vehicle. Maybe the block over has been plowed, move your car over there. Then once your street's plowed, move it back. That's incredibly helpful. And then frankly, just don't drive when the weather's bad," Luke Vanlandegen, superintendent of Rock Island's municipal services, said.
Officials said that they've got plenty of salt stocked up for when the snow starts to fall. Rock Island Public Works is also getting several new trucks, which they said will help better spread and treat the salt.
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