 It has been an icy winter so far, and it's not over yet.
Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation (LUT) road crews use anti-icing material (magnesium chloride with rust inhibitors) and sand to try to alleviate or minimize icy road conditions. Constituents often ask why the County doesn't use road salt (solid sodium chloride), particularly since ODOT has started experimenting with it. Oregon road agencies historically have not used salt due to cost and impact to roads, cars and the environment.
"ODOT is experimenting with road salt only at specific trouble spots, and it's our understanding they have no plans for widespread use at this time," explained Dave Schamp, LUT Operations and Maintenance manager. "They are borrowing the salt from Washington. I don't think you'll see local jurisdictions - including Washington County - using road salt until we know the results from ODOT's experience."
Before Washington County could start using road salt on a widespread basis, a federal application process would need to be completed, a salt storage facility constructed and equipment modified. The process could take as long as three years.
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