City’s anti-icing pilot project saved taxpayers millions, used less sand

The city’s anti-icing pilot project reduced costs this past winter but challenges still remain, says a report released to a city committee Thursday.

The report indicated this year’s snow and ice control program cost $4.3 million less than the five-year average and used 68 per cent less sand.

A calcium chloride solution was tested in designated areas this winter. The report recommends it be continued in 2018-19.

The anti-ice solution is applied before storms to prevent ice from bonding to roadways.

Reduced sand use meant less sand to be picked up during spring street sweeping, which was completed six days faster than the fiveyear average.

But the report wasn’t all good news. Engineering services researched the effects of salt and the calcium chloride on concrete and asphalt, and found it increases the risk of damage to improperly cured concrete.

More salt was used because current equipment and methods weren’t designed to minimize its application, said the report.

Additional funding is needed to upgrade equipment, the report said.

Policy improvements include reaching bare pavement within 12 hours after the snow stops falling on arterials and freeways and within 24 hours for prioritized sidewalks, trails, bike routes and bus stops adjacent to city property.

One proposed change to the city ’s snow control policy is to end a sand recycling program that began in 2005.