RELEASE: Public Works crews to de-ice bridges in preparation of freezing temperatures

MARANA - In preparation of freezing temperatures, crews from the Town of Marana Public Works Department Streets Division have initiated de-icing of Town bridge decks to make sure they are free of ice, and are safe for motorists to drive over. Due to frequent weather changes, there will be no scheduled traffic alerts throughout the season, but motorists should always be aware of their surroundings and of crews working around the bridge deck crossings. Motorists are also advised to always drive with caution when the possibility of ice exists on the bridge.

Town crews will place “Wet Road Ahead” signs at bridge entrances and spray magnesium chloride on the bridge decks. Magnesium chloride lowers the freezing temperature of water and prevents ice from bonding on a bridge deck.  A light coating of magnesium chloride produces no negative effects on ground water, surface water or vegetation.  Magnesium chloride is an effective ice suppressant agent lasting for approximately 10 days. Rainfall diminishes its effectiveness.  

When temperatures warrant, six (6) Town bridge decks are sprayed and monitored throughout the evening and into the early morning to make sure ice has not formed at the bridge crossings.

Bridge Spraying Areas:

  • Cortaro Road. at Santa Cruz

  • Twin Peaks Road at Santa Cruz

  • Ina Road at Santa Cruz

  • Avra Valley Road Box Culvert West of Clayton Rd

  • Sanders Road at Santa Cruz River

  • Thornydale Road at CDO Wash