IDOT wants staff to cut back on truck use

SPRINGFIELD -- A snowy winter and early spring, plus high gas prices are leading the Illinois Department of Transportation to cut back on vehicle use.

IDOT spokesman Brian Williamsen says the agency is asking staff at the maintenance yards to cut back on use of maintainers, mowers, and other trucks. In some districts, one maintainer will sit idle one day a week. Mowing will be curtailed until absolutely necessary.

But Williamsen says filling potholes is a public safety issue, and must be done. The agency budgeted $40 million for its snow- and ice-related duties this year, but the rough winter ended up costing IDOT $85 million.

The agency is asking state lawmakers for an additional $20 million to help east the strain.