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In Covington, Kentucky, Public Works crews are working tirelessly to keep the streets clear as a winter storm continues into its second day. Brad Schwenke, the City's "Snow Commander," has been leading efforts from his small office at the Public Works garage. After a 16-hour shift battling snow and ice, he managed only a few hours of sleep before starting another long day.
More than half of the Snow & Ice Team's "A" team members chose to rest at the garage between shifts rather than travel home. Mechanic Daniel Chumley remarked, "A little bit (of sleep) is better than nothing."
The team reported in on Sunday morning and worked until early Monday, deploying 20 trucks with plows and salt spreaders. When the "B" team took over at midnight under backup commander Jason Roberts, there was a brief overlap with 37 trucks operating simultaneously.
"Every single truck we had with a plow was out, and then some just had salt," said Schwenke. Despite their efforts, heavy snowfall set them back again this morning.
Schwenke advised new employees about the challenges ahead: “The first 16 hours are easy,” he said. “But now there’s more traffic out, people are getting tired, and the temperature is going to drop.”
A Level 2 snow emergency remains in effect throughout Kenton County and Covington. Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and be patient as crews focus on main roads before turning attention to side streets.
Several incidents occurred during the storm response. A Ford Explorer got stuck on railroad tracks but was safely moved by a plow driver and police officers. The city's salt supply is dwindling but additional orders have been placed.
Mechanics worked continuously to repair equipment issues such as broken lights and hydraulic lines. One driver noted that they do not stop even when conditions worsen: “Not in the 10 years I’ve been here,” he said.
Crews find ways to manage long shifts through food brought from home or purchased locally. Schwenke shared chili made by his wife and cookies baked by his daughter with colleagues.
