Planning: Plow Route Optimization

Planning snowplow routes is a complex process. Route optimization evaluates an agency’s plow routes and recommends improvements for greater efficiency. Agencies may be able to reduce their cycle times, lower fuel costs and even combine routes while still delivering the same level of service.

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Clear Roads Resources

• Clear Roads Decision Support Guide for Automated Snowplow Route Optimization
• Clear Roads Contracting Language Template for Automated Snowplow Route Optimization
• Clear Roads Best Practice Manual for Clearing Interchange Configurations
• Clear Roads Reference Cards for Clearing Interchange Configurations

Other Research and Resources

RESEARCH

• Iowa DOT Office of Maintenance Snow Plow Optimization (Iowa DOT, 2020)
• Snow Plow Route Optimization in Delaware (Delaware DOT, 2018)
• Snow and Ice Removal Route Optimization in Kentucky (Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, 2017)
• Snow Route Optimization (Colorado DOT, 2016)
• Route Optimization Phase I (Ohio DOT, 2016)
• Optimization of Snow Removal in Vermont (Vermont AOT, 2013)
• Optimizing Winter/Snow Removal Operations in MoDOT St. Louis District – Includes Outcome Based Evaluation of Operations (Missouri DOT, 2011)

RESOURCES

• Scheduling and Routing of Service Trucks and Planning of Resource Replenishment Locations for Winter Roadway Maintenance (University of Illinois dissertation, 2014)
• Efficient Routes for Snowplowing, Street Sweeping, and Refuse Collection (article in Public Works, 2013)

Videos

CH2MHill Snow Plow Route Optimization project in Centennial, Colorado (2013)

C2Logix Snow Plow Optimization Webinar (2013)