A winter operations review was presented to County Council, October 14.
Oxford County drivers could eventually see more consistent snow clearing, particularly during afternoons, weekends and major winter storms.
A winter operations review presented to County Council, October 14, recommends modernizing how the County maintains its road network as the population grows and traffic patterns change.
The review found Oxford’s current winter program is effective, but limited backup staffing can cause challenges when employees are absent or snowplows require repairs. Weekend and holiday coverage has also become more difficult.
For Oxford County drivers, the coming winter will be a transition period, with the County testing potential changes while still dealing with identified staffing, equipment and after-hours coverage challenges.
Oxford currently has 32 winter operations positions covering 30 snowplow routes between its day and afternoon shifts.
Future budgets could consider two additional permanent and four seasonal operators. That could increase afternoon snowplow deployment from 13 routes to 17, matching the day shift and providing additional coverage when winter weather hits.
The County also plans to develop clearer service standards outlining winter response times, expected road conditions following storms and priority routes during severe weather.
An updated Salt Management Plan will look at responsible salt use and a move toward using salt first and sand when needed.
This coming winter will help Oxford test potential changes and gather more information.
The County plans to finalize its new Winter Operations and Maintenance Plan in 2027, with broader implementation beginning for the 2027-28 winter season.
