MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — Warm winter temperatures mixed with below average snowfall saved the state and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) $20 million this past winter, allowing the department to get a jump-start on projects that had been deferred due to last summer’s state government shutdown.

MnDOT spent $45.9 million on winter maintenance, and snow and ice activities during the 2011-2012 winter season, compared to the $66.1 million spent on average over the last four years. By comparison, MnDOT spent $81.1 million on snow and ice removal during the 2010-2011 season.

Some of the projects the department is now getting ahead on include pothole patching, crack sealing, brush-cutting and tree-trimming.

MnDOT districts have also started to refill their salt sheds at the 2011-2012 salt prices, which should save the department money next fall when prices are expected to rise.

For updated statewide road conditions and construction information, call 5-1-1 or visit www.511mn.org.