Published: November 04, 2009 07:50 am      

Heavy snow, messy roads ahead

DETROIT (AP) -- Officials say drivers in one southeast Michigan community should expect longer clean up times following winter storms.

The Road Commission for Oakland County said Tuesday that reduced funding generated by Michigan's gas and registration taxes means fewer workers and trucks will be on the road for a second shift during heavy snowfalls.

Richard Skarritt, board chairman of the road commission, said the county has 150 employees for snow removal, down from 190.

Skarritt tells The Detroit News that the source of the road commission's operating funds has declined four straight years.

County road commissions statewide will give priority maintenance to freeways and reduced maintenance to secondary routes.