Salt Solutions: Statewide Salt and Sand Reduction Initiative

摘要

This report evaluates the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) Salt211u001eSolutions program over the past two years. The evaluation documents the 211u001ecomponents of the program, describes the technology, and provides a detailed cost-211u001ebenefit analysis. Recognizing the potential to reduce the level of salt and sand 211u001euse, the maintenance division began a reduction initiative in District 1 during 211u001ethe 1996-97 snow and ice season. The Salt Solutions program sought to develop a 211u001eset of tools and a system that allowed operators to make better application rate 211u001edecisions, support those tools and systems with ongoing training, develop 211u001econtrols and measurements to track the effectiveness of the tools and training, 211u001edevelop controls and measurements to track the effectiveness of the tools and 211u001etraining, and recognize improved performance. The program expanded statewide in 211u001ethe 1997-98 winter season. Results of this evaluation show that the program is 211u001ecost-effective means of reducing the amount of salt and sand applied to Minnesota 211u001eroadways while still maintaining a safe operating environment. In its first year, 211u001ethe program saved an estimated $177,000.