HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — Hunterdon County Public Works crews responded to eight winter storms and nearly 37 inches of snowfall during the 2025–2026 winter season, county officials reported during a March 3 Board of Commissioners meeting.
Public Works Director Dan Bush presented a seasonal recap outlining the department’s efforts to keep county roadways safe throughout the winter months.
According to the report, the county experienced approximately 37 inches of snow across eight measurable storms, requiring significant coordination, equipment and materials to maintain travel conditions on county roads.
County Commissioner Zach Rich commended the work of Public Works employees.
“Our Public Works crews put in an incredible amount of work this winter to keep Hunterdon County roads safe,” said Rich. “From producing and applying thousands of gallons of brine to coordinating equipment, materials, and personnel during multiple winter storms, the level of planning and execution required is significant. As we head into warmer weather, it’s important to recognize the professionalism and dedication these crews show every time severe weather impacts our region.”
During the winter season, Public Works crews logged 3,554.9 hours of overtime responding to storms and maintaining road conditions.
The department used a range of materials to combat snow and ice, including 6,263 tons of rock salt, 14,900 gallons of brine and 6,480 gallons of calcium solution.
Officials said brine is typically used as a pre-treatment before storms and works best when temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Calcium solution is used during colder conditions and remains effective in temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees, helping maintain traction during extreme cold.
Public Works also introduced several operational improvements during the winter season. Crew rotations were adjusted to ensure required rest periods during extended storms while maintaining continuous coverage of county roads.
The department also provided snacks and drinks at garage locations so crews would have access to food during long storm responses, particularly when local stores were closed.
Officials said Public Works worked closely with county administration, the Office of Emergency Management and Garage Services throughout the season. The department also implemented a new Standard Operating Procedure for Snow and Ice Preparation and Removal in 2026 to strengthen planning for future winter operations.
One of the season’s most significant storms occurred Feb. 22–23, when 6 to 10 inches of snow fell across the county.
During that storm, crews applied 1,130 tons of rock salt and 390 gallons of calcium solution and logged more than 1,500 combined labor hours between Public Works and Garage Services.
Equipment used during the operation included 28 snowplow spreaders, 24 dump trucks, four wheel loaders, six snowblowers and four pickup trucks, officials said.
County officials estimated the total operational cost of the storm at $236,600.59.
As winter operations wind down, county officials said the work performed by Public Works crews highlights their role in maintaining safe transportation infrastructure for residents, businesses and emergency services throughout Hunterdon County.
