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Work Piles Up For Unsung Heroes Of Snow Removal

WEST ST. PAUL (WCCO) -- Minnesotans can always count on plow drivers to keep the roads open, even during a winter like this.

While many people enjoyed a holiday Friday, Minnesota Department of Transportation workers were out fighting the ice and snow, like they have been for weeks.

At New Year's Eve, 9 a.m., a crew is removing snow along Robert Street in West Saint Paul. Because it is also a state road, Highway 3, MnDOT has to take care of it. Crews have been working hard since before the Dec. 11 blizzard.

"We've been working 12 hours a day, seven days a week, even a little before that," said Jerry Able with MnDOT. "Thanksgiving weekend there was some snow too, so they've been working a little longer than that."

The state has no set budget for battling the snow and ice. They just do what has to be done. Most people don't realize how many different trucks and machines MnDOT uses, but the non-stop winter weather does take a toll on all of it.

"It wears on the equipment. We have breakdowns. We have great mechanics that keep us going and going, and we try to have a sense of humor to keep ourselves going and get along with everybody," said Abel.

Along with maintaining trucks and tractors, snow removal work keeps crews busy in-between storms. With months of winter left, the giant snow piles left by plows have got to go.

"It keeps the lanes open so you have a clear driving lane. It keeps the sight lines open so you can see traffic coming on and going off the lanes that you're using," said Abel.

For those who wish to show appreciation, Abel has an often-heard request: give the plows and other equipment plenty of room to operate.

WCCO-TV's Liz Collin Reports

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