Why Every Public Works Department Needs a Data-Driven Paving Plan

August 9, 2025
Listed in Administration

Across the country, many public works superintendents still choose their annual paving lists using a method that’s as informal as it is risky: they simply “know” which roads look bad and need work. While decades of experience have value, this approach, often referred to as paving by the seat of your pants, has major flaws. When decisions aren’t supported by objective measurements, clear records, and multi-year projections, you open the door to criticism from taxpayers, re…continue

Battery-Disconnect Switches: The Low-Cost Lifesaver Your Fleet Cannot Ignore

July 31, 2025
Listed in Daily Tasks

Losing a public works department’s front-line fleet is a gut punch on every level: the price tag alone is staggering, with each modern plow truck now ringing in at $250,000 - $300,000, and lead-time bottlenecks mean replacements ordered today may not roll onto the lot for 12 to 18 months. While crews wait, snow and ice don’t; without those trucks the department can’t clear roads, patch potholes, or haul materials, leaving residents stranded and critical services - police, fire,…continue

Understanding Developer Maintenance Bonds

July 12, 2025
Listed in Administration

When a subdivision, commercial park, or other private development turns public improvements, streets, sidewalks, water and storm-sewer lines, over to the municipality, the job isn't truly “finished.” Most cities and towns require the developer to post a maintenance bond (sometimes called a “warranty bond”) that guarantees those new assets will remain free of construction-related defects for a set period, typically one to two years after final acceptance. (Schmalz &…continue

Proper Sign Installation on Rural Highways

July 12, 2025
Listed in Highway Safety

Quick-reference guide for rural roads Why placement matters Driver safety & liability - Wrongly placed signs can block sight-lines, be struck by vehicles, or fail to give drivers enough time to react. Compliance - The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is adopted as law in most states; non-compliance exposes the agency to tort claims. Operations - Correct offsets keep signs out of the snow-plow path, ease mowing, and reduce knock-downs. Lateral offset - how far from the roadwa…continue

Pros and Cons of Outsourcing Your Paving Projects

July 10, 2025
Listed in Road Maintenance

Modern highway departments juggle far more than just asphalt: winter maintenance, drainage repairs, sign management, and the never-ending call log. Deciding whether to outsource paving can either sharpen your operational focus or strain an already tight budget. Below is a balanced look at the upsides and downsides, plus a few decision-making tips tailored for municipal agencies. The Upsides (Why Outsourcing Might Make Sense) Advantage How It Helps Your Department Crew Availability Contracting bi…continue