Raleigh Officials Consider Spending More Money On Snow-Removal Equipment

Ice still lingers on Raleigh's Cobblestone Court and a neighborhood full of school-age kids gets the day off because Raleigh's snow-clearing crews could not make it to the cul-de-sacs. Some parents believe it is time for a new set of road-clearing priorities.

"[I would] definitely urge them to take a careful look at the cost and see if it's feasible. I would not be upset if it were to impact my taxes. I don't know that I speak for everybody," parent Wynn Bettinsoli said.

Raleigh officials said they have put more snow clearing equipment on the street. Mayor Charles Meeker said the city doubled its snow-clearing force after the big snowstorm of 2000. They now have 50 plows and 200 workers.

Even though the city faces difficult budgetary times, officials say they will consider adding extra equipment to handle potential snow.

"That's been discussed and we will take another look again at it this year. It's just a question of resources and what it means in terms of cost," Meeker said.

Many drivers claim Cary does a better job clearing its streets than Raleigh. Meeker says Raleigh stacks up well against its neighbor when you consider the capital city has three times as many miles of roads to clear.