Early Mud Season : Castleton Dirt Roads

Dear Castleton Residents,

As we transition from winter to spring, we find ourselves in the midst of Vermont's early mud season. This time of year brings a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the condition of our roads. We wanted to take a moment to update you on the current status and offer some tips to navigate these conditions safely.

The combination of melting snow, thawing ground and rain can lead to muddy and soft road surfaces. This may result in uneven and challenging driving conditions. The dirt roads have been posted for the season with weight limits as heavy vehicles exacerbate existing flaws in the roads surface. Potholes get deeper and tire tracks too, and once the temperatures drop again they freeze the ruts solid. Our public works team is actively monitoring and addressing road conditions, but we ask for your patience and understanding as we work to improve the conditions throughout our community.

Here are some tips to help you navigate dirt roads during this mud season::

1. Reduce your Speed: Slow down and drive at a safe, controlled speed.
2. Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for safe stopping distances.
3. Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and be aware of changing conditions.
4. Use Four-Wheel Drive: If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, consider using it to navigate through muddy areas more effectively.
5. Check Road Conditions: Before heading out, check for any road closure or advisory updates from local authorities. https://newengland511.org/

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding during this early mud season. If you encounter any road-related issues or have concerns, please report them using https://app.heygov.com/castletonvermont.org. You can even upload photos of the issue. Your submission will be assigned to the Highway Department for attention, and you will be able to track the progress to resolution.

Our public works team is working diligently to address road conditions. Sand, gravel, and additional measures are being applied to improve traction and stability. Unpredictable weather can impact our efforts, so we appreciate your ongoing support.

Thank you for your cooperation, and let's work together to ensure a safe and smooth transition through Vermont's early mud season.