TIRED OF BI
Local Option:
ONONDAGA COUNTY CONTRACT
BID #8996 & ONGOV-106-9
OGS MINI BID CONTRACT PC68946
DDINGG?
National Option: SOURCEWELL CONTRACT #060920-NVS
NEW YORK STATE
INSIDE
Highway Superintendent Douglas Robinson and the Town of Urbana..................................................................................9
STAFF
President/Publisher Edwin M. McKeon Jr.
Editor In Chief Craig Mongeau
Sales Manager Kent Hogeboom
Production Mgr. John Pinkerton
Controller Judith Nixon
Circulation Mgr. Cathy Printz
Sales/Admin. Asst. Deby Hogeboom
Trade Show Manager Teddy McKeon
Consultant Bob Buckley
Lots of news, products and services throughout! 361 Shoemaker Road Mohawk NY 13407 Phone 315/866-1423
E-Mail - khogeboom@cegltd.com
PRODUCERS OF THE ANNUAL NEW YORK STATE HIGHWAY & PUBLIC WORKS EXPO
Amanda Hogeboom-Guilfoyle: General Manager of the NYS Highway & Public Works Show 518-396-7659 email: aguilfoyle@cegltd.com 215-885-2900 email: tmckeonjr@cegltd.com
OCTOBER TBD 2025 • SYRACUSE, NEW YORK
Mailed 11 times a year by name, to every Town, County, Village and City Highway Superintendent, Public Works Director and D.O.T. official in NY State.
Subscriptions are available to all interested persons at a cost of $25.00 per year within the USA. To subscribe, send your check, voucher or money order for $25.00 to the address above. Single issues $3.00 each With the exception of Highway Superintendents, Public Works Directors & D.O.T. Officials, material may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher.
I’ve said it before (many times) and I’ll say it again, properly funding roads and bridges is among the most essential money that government allocates. Frankly, the condition of a country’s roads and bridges is among the components that define whether or not it’s a first-, second- or third-world nation. Roads are just like arteries in the human body and we certainly want to ensure we’re eating right, addressing potential or existing circulatory problems so that we don’t suffer the consequences of blockages.
It can certainly (and rightly) be debated that federal and state government should endeavor to find ways to trim expenses to lower deficits, but vital services cannot be up for debate.
Such has been the case with the governor’s 2025-2026 budget proposal in which no additional funding for local roads and bridges is included. This comes, as the New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways pointed out to lawmakers that inflation has raised the cost of asphalt and other materials in recent years. One superintendent (see story on page 52) explained that municipalities, towns, villages and counties own and maintain 87 percent of the total road mileage on New York State (note: there is a significant increase in funding for roads maintained by NYSDOT.)
CHIPS funding is like a cholesterol reducing medication: take it and you lower your risk of dangerous blockages; don’t take it and risk catastrophic consequences. Potentially deteriorating local roads from lack of adequate funding presents the same risky gamble.
Superintendent’s Profile and I strongly support your efforts to inform the governor and lawmakers that local road funding is just as important, if not more important, than larger scale project funding. If I could, I would remind her of what the former house speaker, Tip O’Neill, representative from Massachusetts, would often say: “All politics is local.”
It’s how you win elections, keep your job and in this case, keep New York State great. P
Craig Mongeau
SW #060122 - A ATTE
Roadway Paving & Maintenance Equipment
SW #011723-HCE
OGS #PC69513
SW #011723-HTI
Wheel Loaders &Excavators
Earthmoving & Material Handling & Excavators
SW #011723-KBL
Excavators: Compact, Full Size & Short-Radius
OCC #0010914
Sewer Vac Trucks
SW #06222-AGI
Snow Blowers, Airport and Municlipal Vehicles
OCC #0010914
OGS #PC68966
Various Models Class 3-8
HGAC #SM10-16
Asphalt & Soil Compaction Rollers
SW #011723-CNH-2
OGS #PC67265
CompactEquipment
Compact Equipment
SW #031721-MBI Tree maintenance Equipment
OCC #0010914
SW #093021-SWZ
Public Utility & Airport
THE POWER OF
FOA M
Winter r Challenges
For r Sno & Ice Removal
•Equipment corrosion
•Frequent breakdowns
•Strain budgets
road maintenance
• Interruptedroadmaintenance
HBy Ruksana Hussain PROFILE CORRESPONDENT
Highway Superintendent Douglas Robinson and the Town of Urbana
“I wanted to continue to build relationships, not only with residents, but with the surrounding communities, while working together to expand all of our abilities,” said Highway Superintendent Douglas Robinson, aka “Fluffy,” of the town of Urbana in Steuben County, an area known for attractions such as Keuka Lake, Glen Curtiss Museum, Finger Lakes Boating Museum and many wineries and breweries.
Having lived in Urbana all his life, Fluffy always knew he wanted to do more for his hometown. Before becoming superintendent, he worked for the town of Urbana for 20 years.
He was elected to his position in 2018 and his current term expires Dec. 31, 2025, but he plans on running for another four-year term.
Tammie Nelson, town of Urbana’s bookkeeper-budget office and HR, praises his work ethic, his organizational prowess and dedication to his role.
“He will come in everyday at approximately 2 a.m. to drive every town road,” she said. “He will head to his office to put together all the bills he has received. It is not unusual to come into e-mails that have been sent at 4 a.m. His attention to the budget is amazing. He will do all the research, for anything the highway department needs or wants prior to coming to myself and the town board to make a purchase. He never makes a purchase or proposal without brainstorming and making sure it will be covered in the budget.”
Handling the paperwork and budgeting were new responsibilities in Fluffy’s first two years in office, but he attended Cornell Local Roads Annual School for Highway Superintendents where he learned about the CHIPS program and other important aspects of the job.
He also has received the continued support of his town board, which he said has helped keep things smooth sailing through the years.
continued on page 12
Standing in front of the department’s John Deere grader (L-R) are Lucas Calafiore, Tim Slayton (deputy superintendent), Bruce Wheaton, Fluffy, Zackary Preston, Terry Hough and Josh Mault.
NEW in 2025
Electric Single Auger for 550 & 1-Ton
Seen here is a gravel job on Bootjack Road. Fluffy called in shared services from all of the area towns for help and received 23 trucks for three days of hauling. He got them pizza.
from page 9
“While attending Hammondsport Central School, I was given the opportunity to attend GST Boces in heavy equipment,” he said. “Upon graduation, I applied for an MEO position with the town of Urbana highway department. While in that position, I learned from my coworkers and had the opportunity to learn from other departments and municipalities. That is what gave me the confidence to seek the superintendent position.”
“Anything we need, from setting up desks, moving office equipment, to delivering water and heaters, we can count on him,” Tammie added. “He checks in regularly with all of us here at the town hall. I have seen him take phone calls to help other municipalities find information on how to use programs like Auctions International and Sourcewell. If a training is set up that
he knows the surrounding towns need, he makes calls and informs them, he will fill the room. He will be the first to tell you when a state budget cut is coming or new regulations are in the works that will affect us. His life revolves around his work and what he puts out. He is truly a wonderful human. We are lucky to have him at the town of Urbana and we know it.”
Teamwork, Tasks
Fluffy and his team are responsible for 101 lane mi. of roads, all of which are municipality — 75 roads are gravel, 25 are paved. There are four plow routes. A normal full loop takes three hours for all routes.
continued on page 16
from page 12
Additional responsibilities include two bridges, dock repair, lawn mowing and maintaining a community dog park along with the town hall and grounds, four park areas and six town cemeteries. The municipality does not have a waste water treatment plant.
There are five full-time staff members: Motor equipment operators Bruce Wheaton, Zachary Preston, Lucas Calafiore, Terry Hough and MEODeputy (his right hand) Tim Slayton. The only part-time crew member is Groundskeeper Josh Mault. The team works Monday through Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. serving the 2,125 residents in the municipality.
Fluffy has worked with three kids from the area schools, where students
go their junior year to BOCES for heavy equipment and work their senior year at the highway department. If there is a job opening, they are offered a full-time position after their senior year.
Total annual operating budget is $1,475717.00 and annual CHIPS allocation is $220,562.65.
Computers used in operations are for Fluffy’s truck for his DigSafe and highway use permits. Portable communications between garage and working machines/crew include two-way radios, cell phones and CBs.
The highway department communicates with residents of the municipality through their website, announcements in the local paper and messaging boards on Facebook.
The town of Urbana highway department’s shop is 120 ft. by 60 ft. and holds its four plow trucks and one work bay for repairs; it also has a break room, bathrooms, office and part storage for the trucks.
5985 Court Street Syracuse, NY 1320 (315) 437-2611
17 Northway Lane Latham, NY 12110 (518) 220-9500 Road
The town of Urbana highway department’s salt storage barn stores a mix of salt and sand — approximately 1,500 tons — for use on the town’s gravel roads, and approximately 150 tons of salt for its blacktop roads. The department also lets the village use a corner of the barn to store its salt.
from page 16
Office Space, Equipment
Facilities include a main shop, second shop, tire shed, steel container and salt barn with 200 tons of undercover capacity for salt storage and 1,500 tons of salt sand mix. The main shop was built in 1993, Quonset hut in 2003 and salt barn in 2000.
The main highway shop is a 60-ft. by 120-ft. steel building, which houses five bays, the first two where trucks are serviced and minor repairs addressed. In the winter, each bay houses a truck for one of the plow routes.
This main shop is well supplied so when they break down, day or night, they are able to get back up and running with minimal down time. They also can build their own hydraulic hoses in-house and purchased a battery-powered impact drill to be able to change the truck and loader tires as needed.
continued on page 24
Seen here is the bottom of the stream at the inlet of the pipe.
from page 20
The Quonset hut stores everything from mowers and excavators to the sweeper, and there is also a small 10-ft. by 20-ft. shed for tires. A 10-ft. by 40-ft. steel container holds all their road signs, hand equipment, cut off saws, etc. A 60-ft. by 80-ft. salt storage shed holds a mixture of salt and sand for dirt roads and salt for black topped roads. Equipment and trucks in the fleet include:
• 1998 John Deere 6506 dozer
• 2000 Case 580L backhoe
• 2006 Case JX109OU tractor
• 2014 Volvo roller
• 2018 Falcon asphalt hot box
• 2018 John Deere tractor with flails
continued on page 28
A stream is all cleaned out and ready for stone.
The crew from soil and water begins to place stone in the stream for erosion control.
REBUILDS >
• 2020 John Deere grader
• 2021 John Deere 624P loader
• 2021 John Deere compact tractor
• 2022 John Deere mini-excavator
• 2011 Scag zero-turn mower
• 2020 Ferris zero-turn mower
• 2023 Volvo EW160 excavator
• 2009 Volvo 10-wheeler
• 2005 Volvo 10-wheeler
• 2017 Volvo 10-wheeler
• 2019 Volvo 10-wheeler
• 2016 Peterbilt 10-wheeler
• 2013 Western Star 10 –wheeler
• 2008 Chevy pickup
• 2022 Chevy one-ton
• 2023 Chevy one-ton
• 2013 LayMor sweeper
• 2023 Felling tip trailer
Preventive maintenance schedule for equipment/trucks includes a pre-trip inspection before operating and in-house full services every 200-250 hours on equipment and trucks.
Instead of a typical lease, the town of Urbana has built-in payment plans in the budget to allow for bigger purchases with a smaller impact to the tax rate.
Currently, there is a three-year payment plan for the 2021 John Deere loader, a seven-year payment plan for the 2023 Volvo EW 160 excavator, and they are in the last year of a five-year payment plan for the 2020 John Deere grader.
“My plan is to use the payment for the grader toward two new 10-wheelers in the next year,” he said. “This works for our municipality as we don’t have to come up with all the funds up front. With the cost of equipment constantly rising, we can plan and purchase the vehicles we need.”
continued on page 34
The town of Urbana highway department collaborates on projects with Steuben County and Steuben County Soil and Water.
Collaborations, Accomplishments
The town of Urbana has a shared services agreement with Steuben County and works closely with the surrounding towns of Bath, Pulteney, Prattsburg and Wayne. They collaborate on projects with Steuben County and Steuben County Soil and Water.
“Their help has been instrumental in completing some of our larger projects,” he said. “We are a small crew of five drivers so when they help with a truck/operator or two, it helps tremendously. We had a job last year on Boot Jack Road, a dirt road. The surrounding towns pitched in 22 trucks and we hauled 210 loads of #4 stone to the site over two days. The plan is to oil and stone that road next year, but we could never have accomplished it in that timeframe without the help.”
Major work accomplished in Urbana by the highway department includes projects on Urbana Road and East Lake Road.
from page 28 continued on page 38
Seen here is work on Urbana Road as part of a rebuild project.
The storage barn was built to house all of the other equipment like the excavators, grader, tractors and other trucks.
AIR REALITIES ROAD REP
raffic jams. Media attention. Annoyed business owners. Frustrated shoppers. Upset neighbors. T
elcome to your world. Questions. Finger pointing. W
e can make sure we have the equipment that fits what you need What can we do to help you? W
and we can deliver it on schedule; we can help you choose the work tools that make sense; we
stand ready to support you with training and service.
from page 34
“Urbana Road was a one mile road with half of the road being only seasonal,” he said. “We took the seasonal section and made it two lanes to open it up to traffic. We did a total rebuild on the entire mile of road by adding new pipes, ditches, lined the ditches, gravel and some catch basins, turning it into a year-round road that can accommodate the traffic. We were then able to oil and stone the road.”
East Lake Road had a section that was flooding due to heavy rain and run off but with help from Steuben County Soil and Water, Fluffy and his team replaced the culvert and drained and lined the creek to slow the water flow.
Some of the smaller projects have included adding two large pavilions at Champlin Beach for public rental and updating the public bathrooms at the depot where public boat docks are located.
The boat docks have to be expanded so the highway department is waiting on a permit from the Department of Environmental Conservation to move ahead.
The town is in the process of creating a bridge/walking path to connect the two public parks — Curtis Park and Champlin Beach at the head of Keuka Lake — and Fluffy’s team has been involved in helping with the clearing and overseeing of these projects.
continued on page 40
Seen here is the dump truck the town of Urbana highway department had made from donations from the Touch a Truck program. It is going in a playground the department is building for the kids in town.
Seen here is part of the drainage project on Urbana Road as part of a rebuild project.
“I have implemented a highway use permit with the support of the town board, so if there is any work on a roadway or in the town’s rightof-way, they must get a permit to do so,” he said. “This is helping to decrease the road damage and undermining of roads.”
He would like to continue to rebuild one mile of dirt road a year, from the ditches to driveways, crossover pipes, any tree removal, then widening the road if necessary, adding heavy stone to the soft spots and graveling, and then oil and stone that section of road the next year to help preserve it.
Community Initiatives
Fluffy’s Touch a Truck is a program that he has organized for the past two years for the kids in the community. It is a hands-on event for children (and adults) to climb into the vehicles, talk to the operators, watch demos and enjoy rides.
Organizations such as New York State Electric and Gas, Steuben County Emergency, T&R Towing, Teamsters Local 118 and companies and non-profits such as Wilbri, Fleet Pride, Admar, Steuben County Soil and Water, village of Savona, Monroe Tractor, Saratoga Associates and John Deere all participated with a booth or donations.
Every year, the kids sand and paint the V-plow, which is proudly displayed outside of the highway department on SR54.
continued on page 44
Seen here is a plow on which kids paint pictures and sayings during the Touch a Truck show every year; then,
Fluffy puts it in front of the town barn for the year.
The 2019 Volvo dump truck and Felling 50-ton tip trailer the department uses to move its equipment from job sites.
from page 40
“My hope is to spark the interest in kids/teens/adults to these fields, we need help and good workers,” said Fluffy. “After last year, I had a playground truck built. It will be the first piece in a community playground at Champlin Beach. All playground pieces will be based on trucks and/or rescue vehicles. This is solely funded by donations.”
Fluffy remembers his childhood and when in school, hearing the trucks come off the hill while playing during lunchtime.
“That’s what got me into wanting to do this job,” he said. “I always told my parents that I want to become a truck driver. But now we are having a hard time finding people to do our job. Nobody wants to drive trucks. Every one of our towns in this area is looking for help.”
Thus, was born the idea of a truck show, hoping that kids’ exposure to the profession at a young age would help pique their interest in pursuing a career here. That also led to the playground, where all the apparatus looks like
trucks — dump truck, backhoe or a dozer with swings on it, sandbox with diggers, etc.
With a demanding work schedule that is weather-dictated and plenty of plans for improvements around the community, Fluffy has a full workload and is usually shuttling between work and home.
“It’s a busy life, but I love it,” he said. “I’ve been doing it so long and I love the community. I want to do it for as long as they keep me here.”
His wife Paula agreed. “My husband loves his job and has made many positive changes as superintendent. I couldn’t be prouder. He gives his job his all and works at least 12 hours a day.”
The couple have been married 26 years and head out camping some weekends at nearby Cardinal Campground, where Fluffy enjoys smoking meat and relaxing by a campfire, before heading back to the office for the week. P
(All photos courtesy of the town of Urbana highway department.)
The department purchased this 2022 John Deere wheel loader, which is on a three year payment plan.
N.Y. Superintendents Unhappy Budget Has No New Funds for Roads, Bridges
Town and county highway superintendents across New York State have been expressing their frustration that no new funding for local highways and bridges was included in Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed 2025-2026 budget.
As a result, they argue that the lack of increased monies comes despite rising construction and supply costs, making it difficult to maintain and improve local infrastructure, Buffalo’s WGRZ-TV in Buffalo reported Feb. 6, 2025.
The New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways (NYSAOTSOH) recently told lawmakers that inflation in recent years has dramatically increased the costs of asphalt and construction work in general.
“We are just extremely disappointed for the second year in a row,” James Dussing said when asked by WKBW-TV, also located in Buffalo, about Hochul’s proposals. Dussing is the highway superintendent for the town of Clarence and first vice president of NYSAOTSOH.
Richard Crawford, the highway superintendent for the town of Grand Island, expressed similar concerns.
“It’s frustrating,” he said. “Certainly, the governor knows what cold weather does to the roads.”
Dussing highlighted that while the governor’s budget includes a significant increase for roads maintained by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), there is no increase in funding for the state’s Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), which towns rely on at the local lvel.
“Municipalities, towns, villages and counties own and maintain 87 percent of the total road mileage in New York State,” he said, and noted an imbalance in the funding’s distribution.
Crawford warned that without more money, his department might only complete 20 to 40 percent of scheduled road projects this year, leading to faster road deterioration and higher future repair costs.
Associations Outline Their Wants to Legislators
At a Feb. 6, 2025, hearing on the New York State Joint Legislative 2025-2026 budget, Matt Mustico, who serves as NYSAOTSOH’s president and is the highway superintendent for the town of Elmira, was joined by his counterparts at the N.Y.S. County Highway Superintendents Association and other municipal road professionals in discussing Hochul’s budget proposal and outlining what they see are the conditions and needs of the state’s local transportation system.
In a news release, Mustico said that in her submitted budget, Hochul kept N.Y.’s local highway and bridge funding programs flat while adding $800 million for NYSDOT’s CORE Road and Bridge Program. She has pointed out the need to restore the purchasing power of the NYSDOT capital plan to address rising construction costs and ensure that projects remain on track, additional funding that Mustico’s group acknowledges is necessary to slow
asset deterioration.
“We agree state roads need investment, but the governor should have stepped up and also provided increased CHIPS funding for New York’s massive locally owned road and bridge system,” he said. “Record high inflation rates for highway construction materials have severely increased costs and as a result, local governments are seeing a significant reduction in the real dollar value of local highway maintenance programs.
He also noted the critical need for “an additional $250 million [to] be added to the 2025-26 budget for local highway programs like CHIPS. This will allow us to recoup some of the real funding value lost to inflation since the five-year program was initially adopted in 2022. We are also requesting five of the state’s local road assistance programs be combined into two to reduce the administrative burden on recordkeeping at NYSDOT and our municipalities.”
The county and town highway superintendents also would like to see the CHIPS competitive bid threshold increase from $350,000 to $1 million, if not eliminated altogether. He believes that by doing so, municipalities in New York will have more flexibility to pursue the most cost-effective option on behalf of taxpayers while still being eligible for state reimbursement, regardless of project size.
“Considering the significant increases in construction inflation over the past three years, the current $350,000 threshold is functionally obsolete,” he said.
A continued level of funding, totaling $200 million per year, also is on the superintendents’ wish list for the state’s local BRIDGE-NY program. The signature initiative directs federal and state funding to local bridge and culvert projects throughout the state. In all four rounds of the program thus far, Mustico told state legislators, the number and value of project applications far exceeded the funding available for each region of New York.
In 2024, for instance, BRIDGE-NY made $483 million available for various projects, $126 million of which was dedicated to work on culverts. Applications from across the state were submitted for 202 bridges and 274 culverts and of those, a total of only 122 bridges and 94 culverts were funded.
Besides being responsible for the safe operation of most public roadways in New York State, Mustico reminded legislators that the professional groups’ collective membership and union workforce also maintains “half of its bridges and plowing not only our huge system but over a quarter of the [NYSDOT] roads.
“This massive local system is owned by 1,600 local governments and consists of over 97,000 centerline miles of roadways and 8,600 highway bridges,” he said. “Every time there is a weather event – major snow accumulation, freezing temperatures, or severe flooding – the hardworking people on our local crews ensure New York’s drivers get to and from work, homes, schools, hospitals and other destinations safely.”
continued on page 62
Fuel Tank Restoration and Repair We are the only full service fuel tank restoration and repair facility in up-state New York. New U.S. made aluminum tanks.
TitanX original equipment quality radiators for Mack MR Series and other trucks. Call for availability and price.
Radiators, Charge Air Coolers, Oil Coolers
New, Recores, Repairs, Custom Designed aluminum and copper brass
DPF, DOC, and EGR Cleaning
Controlled burn baking and dual forced air and suction ensures all cells are cleaned. Damaged fittings can be repaired or replaced
Burn Off Oven
Complete removal of paint and grease from your parts and equipment.
Fluid Lines
Hydraulic, including steel, AC and Brake lines
Other Services
Aluminum and steel welding. Press brake, mill, lathe, notchers and sheers. Wet and dry sand blasting, caustic boil out, acid and solvent cleaning, high pressure wash.
MUNICIPAL TRUCKS REFURBISHED FOR SALE
FABTEX OFFERS BUNDLED SERVICES
Available on State Contract
• Welding & Fabrication
• New Truck Bodies
• Swap Bodies
• Refurbishing
• Truck & Equipment Painting
• Truck Repairs, Pm Service
• Aerial Boom Inspections
• Truck & Equipment Sand Blasting
• New & Used Truck Sales
REFURBISHED NEW BUILDS
2015 MACK LEU 600 DUAL BIN COLLECTION TRUCKS
• Used Former Municipal Trucks
• Like-new, Working Condition
• Low Mileage
• New Paint -Will Paint Your Color
• Will Ship to Your Location
• Dual steering
• Snow plow (optional)
• 72,000 lb GVW
ON STATE CONTRACT
NO Bidding Needed Call or email for price
DEDICATED MACK 2007MR60010 WHEEL SPREADERS
• Used Former Municipal Trucks
• Like-new, Working Condition
• Low Mileage • Automatic
• New Paint - Will Paint Your Color
• Will Ship to Your Location
• 16' Spreader
• Snow plow (optional)
• 72,000 lb GVW
ON STATE CONTRACT
NO Bidding Needed Call or email for price
2015 MACK LEU 600 SINGLE BIN COLLECTION TRUCKS
• Used Former Municipal Trucks
• Like-new, Working Condition
• Low Mileage
• New Paint - Will Paint Your Color
• Will Ship to Your Location
• Dual steering
• Snow plow (optional)
• 72,000 lb GVW
ON STATE CONTRACT
NO Bidding Needed Call or email for price
Teleo, Storm Introduce Remote, Autonomous Snowplow
The machine is designed for mass snow clearing in large open areas such as industrial parking lots. Customers can order the retrofit of any make and model of heavy equipment for remote-operated and autonomous operations from Teleo, along with an autonomous-ready snow plow blade properly sized for each machine type from Storm Equipment.
Teleo, a company building autonomous technology for heavy construction equipment, and Storm Equipment, one of the largest distributors of commercial snow plow equipment, introduced the only remoteoperated and autonomous industrial snow plow commercially offered in the United States.
With support from Teleo dealer RDO Equipment Co., the companies worked to retrofit a John Deere 332G skid steer loader with Storm Equipment’s Metal Pless snow plow blade and Teleo Supervised Autonomy, Teleo’s technology that enables remote and autonomous operations.
The machine is designed for mass snow clearing in large open areas such as industrial parking lots. Customers can order the retrofit of any make and model of heavy equipment for remote-operated and autonomous operations from Teleo, along with an autonomous-ready snow plow blade properly sized for each machine type from Storm Equipment.
Once outfitted with Teleo’s retrofit kit, the machines are supervised by an operator sitting in a central command center, a more comfortable and attractive working environment than a traditional snow plow operator working from the equipment’s cab on site. The machines are created to help solve staffing shortages in the commercial snow plow industry, where snow contractors are covering larger regions and working long overnight hours, by allowing a single hired operator to work in multiple regions simultaneously.
Initially, the snow plows will be remote-operated and autonomous capabilities will be added in the first half of 2024.
“Remote operation of snow plows is a truly disruptive prospect for
the industry,” said Jordan Smith, owner, Storm Equipment. “Snow removal companies typically don’t have just one make or model in their fleets, so the fact that Teleo’s technology can be retrofitted onto virtually any make and model of heavy machinery makes it a great option for the industry.
“Utilizing Teleo’s game-changing system, the shrinking pool of skilled snow plow operators can cover a lot more ground in a shorter time period. With the click of a button, they can move to a different loader and plow on a job site across town, or even in a different state. This effectively could quadruple the productivity of a single skilled staff member, creating massive operational efficiencies for the snow contractor.
“This technology could also open up snow plowing opportunities to those who are not already heavy equipment operators. We like to joke that today’s streaming gamers could become tomorrow’s remote snow plow operators. Simply put, remote-operated and autonomous snow removal demonstrates undeniable value for contractors looking for the best return on their heavy equipment investments.”
Fleets of machines that are used for applications such as loading gravel, peat moss and other bulk materials in warmer months are used to move snow in the winter months. Teleo’s technology can be easily retrofitted on those fleets, introducing the ability to integrate remote and semi-autonomous technology without the need to purchase new machines. The same machines can be used year-round for snow removal, landscaping, and other site work. This level of flexibility makes the system extremely scalable and cost effective, the
continued on page 66
Comparison of Boss Sidewalk Snow, Ice Clearing Vehicles
Managing snow and ice-covered sidewalks poses unique challenges, demanding efficient and reliable equipment to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.
SR Scout: Entry-Level Workhorse
SR Scout, the latest addition to the Snowrator lineup, offers an entry-level solution tailored for clearing narrow sidewalks and complex entryways. This compact machine boasts a 34 in. width, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces where larger vehicles struggle to reach.
Powered by a 429cc Kohler engine, the SR Scout delivers a brisk 6 mph ground speed, ensuring swift transfers between plow areas.
Key Features of the SR Scout:
• 34 in. width for maneuverability in small areas.
• 6 mph ground speed for efficient transfers.
• Four-wheel hydraulic skid steer for nimble turning.
• Easy access to service areas, minimizing downtime.
• High-lifting plow and ground clearance.
• Best-in-class ergonomics for operator comfort.
• Engine heat directed towards the operator for warmth during operation.
• Power-coated mild steel chassis for durability.
• Hydraulic float system for following precise surface contour.
• 4 ft. fully hydraulic straight blade with float and D-force for effective snow clearing.
• Integrated LED headlights for improved visibility during lowlight conditions.
• Intuitive traction controls for responsive and agile maneuvering.
• Durable construction, ensuring reliability in demanding conditions.
Despite its compact size, the SR Scout doesn’t compromise on power or reliability, making it an ideal choice for contractors venturing into sidewalk snow removal or expanding their existing fleet.
continued on page 64
The SR Scout boasts a 34 in. width, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces where larger vehicles struggle to reach.
Boasting a stainless-steel chassis and a robust 26.5 hp electronic fuel-injected engine, the SR MAG is built to tackle the heaviest snowfalls easily.
NYSAOTSOH Takes Lead in Fight for More Local Road, Bridge Funding
New YorkÊs Superintendents Have Plenty of Concerns
Local governments, excluding New York City, spent $2 billion on road maintenance and improvement in the 2020 fiscal year, according to the state’s comptroller, Mustico said.
Earlier, a 2013 study of local highway and bridge needs published by NYSAOTSOH found that municipalities would need an additional $32 billion over 15 years to restore locally owned roads through repaving and improvements. A decade later, Mustico said that need was updated to just over $2 billion per year as a result of unprecedented inflation of construction materials costs.
“We also remain concerned with the many policy goals of [New York State’s] Climate Action Council Final Scoping Plan, which over the next several years will impact local governments and require significant changes to our highway garages, our equipment and vehicles and even the materials we buy to maintain our critical infrastructure systems,” he explained.
“New freshwater wetland permitting and expanded state jurisdiction, EV sales mandates for medium and heavy-duty trucks and the necessary charging infrastructure, road salt shortages, price hikes and more severe weather events will likely result in
project delays and added costs. These mandates will require planning and significant additional financial investments well beyond what our traditional needs have been. And the true cost will vary depending on where in the state the municipalities are located.
Mustico also told the legislators, “As public officials ourselves, we understand the difficulty in trying to meet all of our constituent’s needs with limited resources. We must work together so that all state and local critical infrastructure needs are addressed. Our economy, workers and the traveling public are depending on us.”
WKBW-TV reported that Mustico and his industry colleagues plan to travel to Albany in March to advocate for increased funding, emphasizing the need for additional resources to maintain service levels for constituents and taxpayers.
In response to questions from the news desk at WKBW-TV, a spokesperson for Hochul sent a statement reading, “Throughout her tenure, Governor Hochul has made transformative investments in infrastructure projects across New York. In the coming months, the Governor looks forward to working with the legislature to pass much-needed infrastructure funding so the state can continue the work necessary to keep New Yorkers safe on our roads and bridges.” P
NYS OGS
SR Scout, Snowrator, SR MAG Offer Differing Strengths
Snowrator: Maneuverable Multi-Tasker
The Boss Snowrator stands out as a right-sized solution engineered to efficiently clear snow and ice-covered sidewalks. With its 4 ft. hydraulic snowplow, the Snowrator excels in maximizing productivity while minimizing the need for manual labor. Its maneuverable design, responsive hydraulic lever turn control and zero-turn radius ensure exceptional maneuverability in any condition.
Notable Features and optional attachments of the Snowrator:
• 4 ft. BOSS Hydraulic Snowplow with a 20 in. tall poly skin blade.
• Powder-coated steel components
• Stainless steel chassis for optimal corrosion resistance.
• Updated attachment system for enhanced functionality.
• Weather-resistant electrical system connectors for improved reliability.
• Corrosion-resistant hydraulic hose ends and joystick hydraulic manifold.
• LED work lights for optimal visibility during operation.
• Hydraulic levers turn control for responsive and agile maneuvering.
• Rear reference bar for enhanced operator support.
• Notched front reference bar for speed control and slip prevention.
• Pre-treatment and de-icing capabilities with a standard 20-gal. brine system as well as an additional optional 20-gal. brine tank that may be added.
• Optional EXACT PATH 1.5 cu ft Drop Spreader for precise salt distribution and TGS85 broadcast spreader for efficient material dispersal.
The Snowrator’s ability to pre-treat and de-ice surfaces, its responsive controls, and its compact footprint make it a versatile asset for contractors seeking to streamline sidewalk clearing operations.
SR MAG: Power Performer
The SR MAG represents the pinnacle of power, performance and versatility in sidewalk clearing technology. Boasting a stainless-steel chassis and a robust 26.5 hp electronic fuel-injected engine, the SR MAG is built to tackle the heaviest snowfalls easily. Its electronic throttle body optimizes power delivery for smooth acceleration and deceleration, while features such as the venting system and oversized cupholder prioritize operator comfort.
Highlighted Features of the SR MAG:
• Stainless steel chassis for optimal corrosion resistance.
• Powder-coated steel components
• 26.5 hp electronic fuel-injected engine for superior performance.
• 4WD capability with eight mph forward and five mph reverse speeds.
• Quick attach system for seamless attachment/detachment of
With its 4-ft. hydraulic snowplow, the Snowrator excels in maximizing productivity while minimizing the need for manual labor.
accessories and attachments.
• Hydraulic float system for precise surface contour following.
• Operator comfort amenities including engine heat directed towards the operator for warmth during operation and oversized cupholder.
• Built-in tie-downs for easy transport.
• A variety of optional attachments, including V-XT attachment with reinforced push frame and dual-acting cylinders; Snow thrower attachment with dual hydraulic motors and 210 degrees of shoot rotation; and Broom attachment with adjustable casters for optimal bristle life.
• Exact Path drop spreader for precise material distribution.
• TGS85 broadcast spreader for efficient material dispersal.
• 40-gal. Brine Tank attachment for pre-treatment and posttreatment.
With its array of attachments for any job at hand and exceptional performance capabilities, the SR MAG is the ultimate choice for contractors demanding uncompromising performance and versatility in their sidewalk-clearing operations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SR Scout, Snowrator and SR MAG each offer unique strengths tailored to the diverse needs of snow and ice contractors. Whether you’re a newcomer looking to enter the sidewalk clearing business or a seasoned professional seeking to enhance your fleet, a Boss Snowrator vehicle perfectly suits your requirements. From maneuverability and efficiency to power and versatility, these vehicles embody the reliability and performance that contractors have come to expect from Boss Snowplow.
For more information, visit www.bossplow.com.
(All photos courtesy of Boss.)
Teleo CEO Says Its Tech Ideal for Mass Snow Clearing Ops
from page 56
company said.
“Commercial snow removal, specifically mass snow clearing in large parking lots and on other long stretches of open, flat surfaces, is yet another ideal application for our technology,” said Vinay Shet, cofounder and CEO, Teleo. “When heavy snowfalls occur, there is an immediate need to clear parking lots and commercial sites so businesses can continue operating. We believe we are offering the only remote-operated and autonomous industrial snow plow available in the U.S.
“The collaborative Teleo-Storm Equipment approach introduces a way to get the job done more efficiently, safely and without customers having to purchase new machines; that makes it a realistic solution for companies of all sizes.”
In addition to the commercial snow removal industry, Teleo also serves customers in construction and material moving. The new snow plow follows Teleo’s recent announcement outlining its growing global dealer network and customer base.
(Photos courtesy of Teleo and Storm Equipment.)
New York State Contract
ADVERTISERS INDEX
