Search for snow plow drivers already underway

PLYMOUTH, Mass. — Too soon? Not according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

On an 80 degree day in mid-September, they are advertising along the highway “hired plows needed”.

At the Department of Public Works yard in Plymouth, they have been getting the winter plan in place for weeks now.

“You never know when that weather is gonna drop or you get that first flake, so we just (want to) be ready to go,” said JB Beder, Director of Public Works for the Town of Plymouth.

Being ready also means having enough plow drivers.

With fewer available Plymouth raised their rates.

“We pay more to try and get those contractors in. We call our crews in first, then call them in to supplement. But for us it’s about getting the snow off the road as quick as we can. So the more the better,” Beder said.

Having back up for when those storms arrive is a challenge Chelmsford and many other towns and cities have been facing for a few reasons.

“One is the insurance requirements and the cost of the damage it does to large trucks to be plowing and the labor force is changing. A lot of people don’t wanna do that night and continuous work, because you get called on short notice and your duration is uncertain,” said Paul Cohen the Town Manager from Chelmsford.

Overtime money doesn’t seem to have the same appeal.

“We are not seeing that level of interest in today’s society,” Cohen said.

Last year was anything than normal, lighter traffic and a lighter winter.

Elements that eased the snowplow driver crunch.

“Last year we had three plowable events, and the year before wasn’t too bad either and with COVID, it was kind of quiet with traffic and schools. So we will see what’s in store for us this year,’ Beder said.

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