Insights | October 13, 2017

State DOTs Discuss their Fleet Management for Snow and Ice Removal

A recent article published by Government Fleet highlights three states that deal with harsh winters. In the article, the Utah, New Hampshire, and Missouri Departments of Transportation fleet managers recently discussed what it takes to keep their fleets viable. The entire article can be read here.

Below is an excerpt from the article about funding:

Requesting Vehicle Funding

State DOT truck replacement budgets are generally controlled by state legislatures, special legislative committees, and governors. DOTs face tough competition and are up against other crucial health and safety needs in the search for truck funding.

Fleet managers agree that the key to persuading legislators, governors, and other officials to support efficient fleet replacements is making a business case based on good data to educate leaders on the cost efficiency of timely replacement. Like Utah’s example, bringing in reinforcements in the way of expert fleet consultants can help build credibility and get officials’ attention.

All three fleets used competitively bid contracts for their cash truck purchases. New Hampshire does supplement cash purchases with bond funds. Niederhelm said Missouri uses a multi-vendor award process, with a mix of manufacturers and configurations.

 

Snow Removal Stats

Fleet Size & Composition: Heavy Truck Snow Removal Fleet
Quantity  Type  Tow Plows 
MoDOT 1.600 3- and 6-Ton 83
NHDOT 400 3- and 6-Ton 3
UDOT 500 Class 8 14
Recommended Replacement Cycles
Age  Miles  Hours 
MoDOT 12 years 175,000 8,000
NHDOT 12 years 180,000 12,000
UDOT 9 years 15,000-21,500
The Replacement Challenge (Most Recent Fiscal Year)
 Replaced Spent 
MoDOT 100 $17.8 million
NHDOT 12 $1.5 million
UDOT 50  $10 million

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