Berrien County road crews prepare for storm

BUCHANAN, Mich. -- It’s all hands on deck at the Berrien County Road Department as they prepare to have all 44 trucks out through the next 24 hours to plow heavy snow as it moves through the region.

“They’ll be gauging how bad the weather is and that will determine how many plows stay out as part of the night crew and then what time they’ll get started tomorrow,” said Brian Dissette, Berrien County Administrator. “I anticipate, based on what we’re seeing now, another 4 a.m. start.”

For Byrdak Lawn Care owner Adam Byrdak, he’ll be getting his guys out even earlier – making sure they’re out the door by 2 a.m.

“There’s nobody on the roads, gives time for the salt to start working in the parking lots, and you’re trying to do all of these businesses before they open,” said Byrdak.

And preparing the trucks starts hours before the storm, in hopes that the only obstacle they find on the roads is the snow.

“Making sure all of the vehicles are prepared, everything’s topped off, getting salt for all the parking lots that we apply, lining up the guys to make sure they know what’s coming,” said Byrdak.

The Berrien County Road Department is closed Monday in observance of President’s Day, but will continue to provide updates through their social media.