How can the City optimize winter material storage locations to reduce travel time and improve storm response?
Project Description: This project focuses on improving how and where winter materials (i.e. salt, brine) are stored across the City. Currently, materials are stored in fixed locations that may not be optimally positioned in relation to winter plowing and salting routes. This can result in extra travel time, delays in accessing materials during winter events, and inefficient use of resources.
The City is interested in identifying better locations and distribution strategies for winter material storage facilities. The goal is to determine the right type and amount of storage required in different areas of the City based on actual winter service routes and operational demand.
Winter maintenance operations rely heavily on quick access to materials to keep roads safe and clear. During storms, delays in reloading salt or brine can significantly reduce efficiency and increase costs. Current storage locations were not necessarily designed using route optimization or modern data tools, creating opportunities for improvement.
The desired deliverables is to develop data-driven and creative approaches to help redesign a more efficient winter materials distribution system that supports safer roads and more efficient operations.
City Staff: Chelsie Gudgeon, Public Works Department
Deliverables: Secondary research, prototype development
Project Start Date/ Availability: Fall 2026, Winter 2027
Location: City Wide
City Strategy Priority: Built Environment and Infrastructure