BRATTLEBORO-The Brattleboro Department of Public Works advises residents that changing temperatures in the coming weeks may affect the condition of gravel roads throughout town as winter frost leaves the ground and daytime temperatures increase.
This seasonal process, often referred to as “mud season,” softens the road structure and can lead to muddy surfaces, ruts, and uneven travel conditions on gravel roads.
Public Works staff will be monitoring these roads and providing status updates daily through roadside signage, which will be placed at the end of gravel roads throughout town. Drivers are recommended to avoid driving on gravel roads, if possible. If drivers must use a muddy road, they are advised to go slowly and use extreme caution.
Road conditions will also be reported via an online map at mapsonline.net/brattleborovt/index.html.
The roadside signage and online map are color-coded. The colors indicate the following:
• Green: Passable by all vehicles. Expect seasonal conditions.
• Yellow: Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles recommended. Some rutting and muddy conditions.
• Orange: Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles advised. Local traffic only. Expect heavy rutting and deep mud.
• Red: Closed to through traffic. Emergency vehicles and residents with proper vehicles only. Some areas are not passable.
For any questions or concerns, contact the Department of Public Works at 802-254-4255, or email Darren Pacheco at dpacheco@brattleboro.gov.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.