The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet spent more than $68 million on snow and ice removal this winter, while more than doubling the salt usage of a typical winter.
KYTC crews spread more than 438,000 tons of salt during the extraordinarily cold winter - compared to 194,000 tons used last year during a mild winter season.
In a statement, KYTC spokesman Keith Todd said the added cost means less funding for some spring maintenance work on state roadways. Maintenance issues that could create hazards on roads will be top priority, but maintenance issues like tree trimming, pavement patching, panel sign repairs and some drainage structure issues may be deferred until funds become available.
While severe, this winter fell short of the record setting winter of 2010-2011. That year, snow and ice removal costs soared to $74 million, with 450,000 tons of salt utilized.