WAUSAU, WI (WSAU-WAOW) — Monday’s wintry weather will give road crews in Marathon County a chance to further test a new, cheaper road treatment aimed at keeping you safe.
Brining, a 77-percent water and 23-percent salt mixture is designed to break down the bond between the snow and the road instantly. Marathon County Highway Department Maintenance Supervisor Paul Schilling tells WAOW TV it’s a process that can repete itself through the duration of a snow event, meaning crews have to do less maintenance. “It’s pretty much instant once it’s down. As soon as the snow hits it, it starts to reactivate it so it’s an ongoing process.”
And because the mixture costs less than other treatment methods that could mean better roads in the spring. “We’re hoping that will go toward summer patching of the potholes,” said Schilling. “Maybe getting a little more road construction done if we can cut back on the winter costs.”
If needed, Schilling and his staff will add a magnesium-calcium-chloride mixture called AMP which allows helps the salt work better in lower temperatures as well.
As always Schilling is encouraging drivers to do their part in to keep everyone safe as well. “Stay back, give the guys some room to work, and take your time,” he adds.
