Dear Neighbors,
As the cool fog rolls in and the leaves begin to turn, I'm reminded of the changing seasons and the challenges they bring to our district and county. With winter on the horizon, it's time we talk about a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of our infrastructure: our culverts.
Winter rains put significant stress on our drainage systems. But here's an empowering thought – many of our road failures aren't solely due to weather. They're a result of our maintenance choices. This realization puts the power back in our hands to protect our infrastructure proactively.
The key is to shift our approach from largely reactive to more proactive maintenance. Rather than scrambling to fix culvert failures during winter storms, we should prepare diligently in the fall. This isn't just about avoiding inconvenience; it's about fiscal responsibility and public safety.
Proactive culvert maintenance is remarkably straightforward. It begins with thorough inspections before the rainy season, identifying potential issues early. We then clear debris from culverts and roadside ditches, ensuring smooth water flow. By promptly addressing minor problems, we prevent them from snowballing into major, expensive repairs. This comprehensive strategy keeps our drainage systems in top shape year-round.
The benefits of this approach are substantial. We can save millions in emergency repairs and prevent devastating road failures. More importantly, we build a more resilient community, better prepared to face whatever weather patterns come our way.
As your potential supervisor, I'm deeply committed to advocating for this proactive approach. By making smarter, forward-thinking choices now, we can create a more prepared and resilient Santa Cruz County – and do so cost-effectively.
If you see an issue regarding a road or a culvert please report it to Public Works by visiting this link: https://cdi.santacruzcountyca.gov/PublicWorks/ReportProblem.aspx
In Community, always.
Christopher
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