As winter weather and potential storms approach Hillsboro, the city's Public Works Department is prepared to respond. Transportation Superintendent Jimmy McClure and his team have a fleet of backhoes, chainsaws, plows, and more than 13,000 gallons of anti-icing solution ready to maintain safe and passable roadways. According to the City of Hillsboro, their crews are trained and "ready to mobilize staff, equipment, and other resources" as soon as winter weather hits.
With such preparation in place, the City aims to swiftly address snow and ice on critical routes. "City streets providing access to critical facilities, emergency services, and major highways" will be the first ones to receive attention during a winter storm, McClure told the City of Hillsboro. Yet, this prioritization means neighborhood streets might not see a plow unless circumstances are dire, and priority routes have been cleared.
Hillsboro collaborates with other agencies to ensure a coordinated response to severe weather. The city has an intergovernmental agreement with Washington County, as well as support from the Cooperative Public Agencies of Washington County Consortium, which facilitates mutual aid, shared responses, and equipment sharing in extreme situations. For state or county-maintained roads, the respective entities lead the response, with Hillsboro providing backup when needed.
To prepare for winter, Hillsboro's Public Works recommends that residents and businesses ensure their homes and vehicles are ready, stay updated on weather forecasts, and clear sidewalks adjacent to their property of snow and ice for pedestrian safety. For emergencies, important contact numbers include Hillsboro Public Works at 503-615-6509 during business hours and 503-629-0111 after hours.
