The Town’s five-member Streets division is small but mighty. Here in Windsor, they’re often the Town’s first set of eyes and ears in emergencies such as the recent flooding. They work 24/7, 365 days a year to ensure that our 87 miles of streets, 15 signalized intersections, and other infrastructure – such as our storm sewer system, waterways, and signalized intersections – are in good working condition.
For example, as recurring storm cycles have battered our area this month, they’re out there, often in the dead of night, monitoring creek flooding and closing and re-opening roads when needed. They also take care of downed trees and remove debris that builds up in our waterways when we get a lot of heavy rain.
“I consider them the forgotten first responders. When the police department needs to close the road, they call us," says Public Works Director Shannon Cotulla.
"Our uniforms are not as fancy as fire or police, but our crews are there behind the scenes to help make things happen and keep the community safe.”
Deputy Operations Director Mike Cave agrees, saying, “It can be all hands on deck – they pride themselves on their quick and effective response to emergency situations.”
In the fall and winter, the Streets division prepares for the rainy season in part by vacuuming debris from the drop inlets and catch basins in our streets. And they walk every foot of the 10 miles of creeks in Windsor to ensure they flow freely into the Russian River and other tributaries.
That’s not all: They’re also responsible for cutting back vegetation by streets and in the public right of way (but not within parks – our Parks & Recreation Department handles that), removing graffiti from the right of way (an ongoing task), fixing potholes, and keeping the Town’s vehicle fleet operational.
And did you know that they’re also responsible for fabricating all the street signs in Windsor? Not just “name” signs like “Windsor Road" but also stop signs, “share the road” signs, recycled water signs, park signage, and much more. They replace about 150 to 200 signs a year on average. The Streets division also installed the new signs and delineators and painted the curbs on Starr Road, in front of Cali Calmecac Language Academy.
“Our residents and businesses should be really proud of this dedicated, high-quality, knowledgeable and experienced crew and how effective they are at resolving issues,” said Mr. Cotulla. “They are all about ensuring and improving the safety of our community.”
By the Numbers:
Recycled Water Fill Station
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