Parsippany Preps for Projected First Snow of 2012

The National Weather Service says Parsippany could see 3-6 inches of snow starting late tonight in the first  blast of winter weather of the new year. A winter weather advisory is in place for the area from 1 a.m. through 5 p.m. Saturday., with a prediction of snow ultimately turning into a mix of snow, sleet and rain.

Local officials say township responders will be ready for whatever happens.

"For planning purposes, I have now loaded all trucks with salt and put plows on," said Greg Schneider, director of the township's Department of Public Works, adding that plows are necessary for snowfalls that exceed 1 1/2 to 2 inches. "Initial manpower for any storm is about 10 to 12 men to man the salt trucks. If the storm looks like it will require a plowing operation, then I activate all township division heads to call in their men and will have approximately another 45 trucks to work with for plowing."

Schneider said that the total manpower required for a major storm is about 60. 

Nearly $1.75 million is allocated for Parsippany street and road maintenance in the township budget approved in 2011, which is available for view on the municipal website. Schneider did not have specific breakdowns as to what is specifically earmarked for snow removal, but he expressed relief that the town has "dodged a bullet so far this year" and in November and December when it comes to ice and snow.

Patch has a request for information on the specific snow removal budget in to Business Administrator Jasmine Lim.

Right now, the DPW director said the town is starting with a clean slate.

"As of Jan. 1, 2012, we are operating under a new budget," he said.  

Of course, at this point, there is no knowing whether the projected Saturday snowfall will qualify as a major storm. But  said his department will be ready as well.

"We're taking the usual precautions, making sure four-wheel-drive vehicles are up and running," he said. "Staffing is pretty normal at this point. We will be cognizant of the storm and if we need to, we can call in additional staffing."

DeZenzo said the town is a little lucky that the snow is predicted for a weekend. 

"We get a little bit of a reprieve when the kids are home from school, so we should get through without too much trouble," he said.

Schneider added some advice for the kids' parents and everyone else.

"The public should hold off on their Saturday shopping until at least late Saturday or Sunday when the storm is done," he cautioned. "The less traffic on the roads during the storm, the easier it is for my crews to get the job done properly and quicker."