Modify snow plows

Snow plows ought to be modified to install a “gate” that can be dropped at each residence driveway to push snow beyond the driveway. We have requested this in the past and been told “the gates break” and “it slows down the drivers.”

So I’ve run the numbers: Assume it takes an extra 30 seconds to slow down at each driveway, lower the gate past the driveway, then raise it to proceed. If there is no gate and a berm is created at each driveway, then assume that it takes each homeowner 30 minutes to 45 minutes to dig out from the berm.

There are 15 homes in our neighborhood – that adds a total of 7 minutes of plow time using a gate. Without a gate, the total time for all of us to dig out is 7.5 to 11.5 hours. Doesn’t add up, especially when you consider the drivers are sitting comfortably in heated cabs. We are nearing 70 and have a harder time each year digging out.

Gates are used in many, many other communities. If you feel the same way, please contact Spokane County Public Works.

Bill Dodge

Spokane