SERVICE REQUESTS
Report road problems to 231-922-4848 or email us at: gtcrc@gtcrc.org
WINTER MAINTENANCE
Salt prices have skyrocketed 18% over last year's price. Nearly 10% of our budget is designated for salt. How does that affect you? The GTCRC has typically used a sand-salt mix for snow and ice control, but this year motorists will see more sand. Salt has melting qualities within a certain temperature range, but sand will provide traction.
Motorists may see roads cleared, but not necessarily down to pavement. This will require old-fashioned good driving skills and proper vehicle maintenance, such as driving for conditions (lower speeds) and good tires (with tread and proper inflation).
GTCRC ordered winter salt early and will have a typical year's supply. But if winter features more snow and ice than normal, more days with early morning black-ice conditions or late day/week-end blasts, service levels will need to be adjusted to make it through the season.
Some long-term employees joined the rank of retirement over the last 18 months. These capable and knowledgeable employees have not been replaced due to declining funding sources. Our primary funding source has not changed since the mid-90's, provides no inflationery adjustment and is not tied to the fuel costs. How does this affect you? The number of miles to be plowed virtually remains the same as development growth has wained. However, the miles per plow route have increased meaning it will take longer for your road to get plowed.
PrintSeasonal Road Information
On May 17, 1989, the Grand Traverse County Road Commission adopted a seasonal road system pursuant to Act 184 of 1981. There are approximately 200 miles of designated seasonal roads in Grand Traverse County.
By law, the maximum amount of routine maintenance is twice per year. Seasonal roads in Grand Traverse County generally receive maintenance (grading) in the spring and possibly in the fall.
The Road Commission does not maintain or snowplow seasonal roads between the months of November through April. Therefore, a seasonal road may not be open to public travel during this time. Private landowners need to perform their own snow removal.
In order to receive winter maintenance, seasonal roads must be upgraded to the current Road Commission's standards at other's expense. A public hearing is required to make changes to the seasonal road system.
Many people like the peace and quiet of a seasonal road, but before purchasing property located on a narrow, county road "in the woods," be prepared to add some money to your budget for snowplowing and road improvements, if necessary.
Seasonal roads are county roads and permits to do work within the road right-of-way are required.
Seasonal roads do have signs designating them as such.
As seasonal road questions generally arise due to an underyling legal activity or issues (mortgages, land divisions, sale of properties, etc.), please contact us in writing. Please provide us with your name, address and phone number/fax/email. We also need the property (tax) identification number or address. You will generally receive a response within one work day or less. Contact information is as follows:
1) Letters - GTCRC, 1881 LaFranier Road, Traverse City MI 49686
2) Emails - gtcrc@gtcrc.org
3) Fax - (231) 929-1836