Idaho Falls prepares for the snow on the way

With snow on the way, the city of Idaho Falls’ Street Department is geared up, ready to salt and plow at a moments notice.

While much of the country digs out this week, the city’s plow drivers are waiting patiently for the inevitable snow.

Street Superintendent Paul Hathaway said his drivers have everything prepared from the plows to the trucks loaded with a mixture of sand and salt.

“We usually get ready around this time,” said Hathaway. “We have to be ready.”

The mixture used in Idaho Falls is usually 3 or 4 parts sand to one part salt. Hathaway said it hits the ground right when the storm does to melt the ice and help with traction.

“It’s for the commuters, so they can get to and from work and school,” said Hathaway. “That works pretty well for them.”

While parts of the country are being hit hard, you won’t find these guys complaining.

“We’ll just call and say, ‘Hey, you’re working,’ said Hathaway. “We’ll go 24-hour shifts. 12 on, 12 off.”