What roads does El Paso County control for snow & ice?
Please consult the annual Snow Map Book and Road Indexes linked below for an up-to-date listing of El Paso County roads maintained for snow and ice by the Department of Public Works.
How does El Paso County determine which roads get plowed first?
Road prioritization is based on several factors that help El Paso County provide safe winter roads for the public. For example, when deciding which roads need attention first (prioritized), emergency vehicle passage and school bus routes are often reviewed first and are noted as a priority.
De-icing means crews apply a liquid magnesium chloride solution to roads to slow down how quickly ice forms on the pavement.
According to CDOT, a three-year study showed that magnesium chloride does not significantly harm plant or aquatic life. CDOT also found that the sand-and-salt mixtures used in the past can cause more environmental damage because large amounts of silt wash into streams. Magnesium chloride does not add air pollution and can even improve air quality by reducing the amount of sand needed.
We recommend that drivers wash liquid de-icing residue off their vehicles after a winter storm using soap and water.
What types of road treatments and techniques does EPC DPW use?
The type of roadway treatment used depends heavily on weather conditions, geography, and location. Current research shows that deicing treatments like magnesium chloride restore traction much more effectively than sand alone. In El Paso County, crews apply magnesium chloride (salt) as either a liquid or a granular mix combined with sand when needed.
El Paso County uses only two types of ice treatments: sand and magnesium chloride salt.
Does El Paso County plow roads during nighttime hours?
Yes, El Paso County plows paved roads during both daylight and evening hours; however, due to safety concerns for heavy equipment operators and motorists, gravel roadways are only plowed during daylight hours.
Emergency requests for snow removal may be made by contacting Emergency Services 911.
Why does it seem like only a limited number of trucks work during some storms?
Weather conditions and the number of Priority 1 roads in an area determine how crews deploy snow removal equipment throughout El Paso County.
The El Paso County Department of Public Works operates multiple equipment yards where crews store deicing material and sand. These locations allow crews to refill trucks quickly, use staff time efficiently, and keep vehicles on the road to provide safe travel for motorists.
