Jefferson County has new salt storage facility

Jefferson County’s engineering department has unveiled a new salt storage facility, funded by a $75,000 grant from the Ohio EPA’s H2Ohio Rivers Chloride Reductions Grant Program. The facility, designed to hold 500 tons of salt, cost over $143,000, with the county contributing $68,204 from its budget. County officials stated that employees constructed the concrete floor and apron, which alone accounted for approximately $30,000. Additionally, they invested about $10,000 in two 2,000-gallon tanks and a pump for managing salt brine. This new facility enables salt storage at all four county garages, significantly improving winter road maintenance capabilities.

The H2Ohio initiative, spearheaded by Governor Mike DeWine, aims to mitigate excessive road salt use and promote best management practices among local jurisdictions. This project not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with state efforts to protect waterways from chloride pollution. The county's commitment to responsible salt management reflects a growing awareness of environmental impacts associated with winter maintenance practices.