Assessing Public Satisfaction and Transportation Choices During Winter Road Maintenance: A Case Study of Utah

Winter road maintenance is essential to keeping people safe and mobile during snowstorms. In Utah, where winter weather is a regular part of life, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) plays a vital role in keeping roads clear and functional. While much attention is given to how roads are plowed and managed, there has been less focus on how the public experiences these efforts—and how the decisions to travel during storms are shaped by personal circumstances and perceptions. This research sets out to understand two things: how satisfied people are with winter road maintenance, and what influences their transportation decisions during snow events. A survey of 550 Utah residents was conducted after two major winter storms in 2024. Respondents were asked about their travel behavior, satisfaction with snow and ice clearance, and how they received information during the storm. Their responses were then matched with local weather data collected from sensors across the state. The results showed that satisfaction with snow removal efforts varies depending on the type of road and who is responsible. People were generally most satisfied with snow clearance on highways and major roads maintained by UDOT. However, they were less satisfied with snow removal on sidewalks, bike lanes, and near buildings—especially in areas where property owners or local governments are responsible. Travel choices were also influenced by a range of factors. People who owned cars or were not employed were more likely to travel during storms, often for errands or leisure. Those who lived in certain regions, such as mountainous areas or neighborhoods with fewer resources, were more cautious or avoided travel altogether. This study offers valuable insights that can help transportation agencies like UDOT make better decisions. By understanding who is traveling, why they are traveling, and how satisfied they are with current snow removal efforts, public agencies can improve operations and better communicate with residents. In the end, making winter travel safer and more reliable means listening to the public—and tailoring solutions to meet their diverse needs.