What Now? - When a Brand-New Development’s Stormwater System Fails

July 2, 2025

The scenario is this: a new development is constructed in your town with engineered plans, and all of the stormwater infrastructure was properly inspected and installed as per expectations. Everything appears satisfactory, the homes are built and and the new residents are moving in. Awhile later, after a heavy rain, it becomes obvious that the stormwater management system designed for the development is wholly inadequate, as it is not capable of handling the amount of rain being received. The ca…continue

Top 5 Budget Pitfalls for Small Highway Departments

June 19, 2025

Managing a highway department on a limited municipal budget is a balancing act. Every dollar counts, and even small mistakes can ripple across your entire fiscal year. Whether you’re a seasoned superintendent or newly appointed, recognizing these common budget pitfalls can help your department stretch its resources and avoid financial headaches down the road. 1. Neglecting Preventive Maintenance It’s easy to delay maintenance when the budget is tight, but that short-term savings can …continue

Keep Tabs on Your Tabs: Why Superintendents Should Monitor Department Spending Weekly

June 14, 2025

If you're running a highway department, your job doesn’t stop at potholes, plow routes, and public complaints. It also includes a less glamorous, but absolutely critical, task: keeping a close eye on your budget. And not just at year-end or when you need to request more funding. We’re talking weekly check-ins on your department’s expenditure categories. Here’s why it matters, and how it can save your budget, your sanity, and maybe even your job. Why Weekly Budget Chec…continue

Why Every Highway Department Needs Written Policies

June 13, 2025

Running a highway department without written policies is like building a road without a blueprint. Eventually, you will hit potholes. A clear set of written policies provides structure, consistency, and legal protection for both the department and the municipality it serves. Yet, too many highway departments operate with “unwritten rules” or rely on practices that are passed down verbally. This may work for a time, but when leadership changes, disputes arise, or legal questions surfa…continue

Prioritizing Your Highway Department’s Work Schedule: A Guide for Superintendents

June 2, 2025

As a highway superintendent, managing your department’s workload is a balancing act between limited resources, urgent needs, and long-term planning. With miles of roadway, countless infrastructure assets, and ever-changing weather conditions, knowing what to tackle first can feel overwhelming. But one principle should always rise above the rest: public safety is the top priority. Here’s a structured approach to help prioritize your highway department’s schedule while keeping yo…continue