TOMS RIVER, N.J. – Ocean County officials say road crews completed the bulk of snow and ice cleanup following last week’s powerful winter storm that blanketed the region, leaving behind days of challenging travel and freezing conditions that workers haven’t seen in decades.
The storm struck the area from Sunday, January 25, through the morning of January 26, dumping several inches of snow and up to an inch of ice across the county, prompting an extensive response from county departments.
More than 200 employees worked continuously to clear and treat roughly 630 miles of county roadways—over 2,000 lane miles in total.
“Ocean County crews responded immediately to last week’s storm and worked around the clock to keep roadways safe,” said Board of Commissioners Director Frank Sadeghi. “Our teams continue monitoring conditions and preparing for potential new weather systems.”
The coordinated operation involved the County Road Department, Bridges, Buildings and Grounds, Parks and Recreation, Solid Waste Management, and Vehicle Services divisions. Vehicle Services kept the snowplow and salt spreader fleet in operation through prolonged shifts and subfreezing temperatures.
Commissioner Ray Gormley credited the collaboration among departments and the endurance of county workers who labored through long hours to restore safe driving conditions. “Their commitment made all the difference in managing the storm’s impact,” he said.
Officials are now turning their focus to replenishing salt supplies, inspecting equipment, and preparing for additional winter weather expected later this month.
According to Lakewood Alerts, some people thought the county did a ‘lousy’ job, but Ocean County officials discounted that claim, considering the quick response to such an inhospitable situation.
- Crews cleared more than 2,000 lane miles of snow and ice
- County departments worked jointly through multi-day storm response
- Officials preparing for possible new round of winter weather
