St. Louis Co. Purchases 12 New Plow Trucks

The new trucks will replace existing trucks that are all at least 20 years old. The purchase is being accelerated because of the time it takes to build and equip the trucks; typically at least nine months. The new vehicles are expected to be ready and added to the fleet next winter.

"This purchase is a sizable investment, and because of that is something we've been discussing for months," said Commissioner Mike Jugovich, who chairs the Public Works Committee. "It's a coincidence that the final vote comes on the heels of a major storm, but if ever there's proof of why we need this, we're seeing it now."

As part of the proposed 2020 budget, which the Board is expected to approve in two weeks, funding for equipment will increase by $2 million, reflecting the Board's ongoing commitment to ensure the Public Works fleet is ready and capable to provide the appropriate level of service even in extreme winter conditions, such as were experienced this past weekend.

St. Louis County Public Works is responsible for maintaining 3,000 miles of roads