AKDOT contractors working in 'full force' to deep clean roads from winter debris

Drivers across Anchorage may have noticed street crews out hitting the roads to give streets and sidewalks a deep clean from winter.

The Department of Transportation says it has a $1.5 million contract with street sweeping companies across the city.

Since this is the first time crews are out sweeping debris left from winter, the AKDOT says this is when the bulk of gravel and sand gets cleared.

Shannon McCarthy, a spokesperson for AKDOT, says rain actually helps crews because it makes it easier to grab the materials off the ground and obviously helps with air quality.

McCarthy said so far most all of the state roads, at least in the central region are able to be cleared.

"Early on we were only doing select locations because the hydrants," McCarthy said, "Once we have thawed lines we can use that, so we are really attacking the area," she said.

Even though the past winter had more snow than recent years, McCarthy said it hasn't delayed the progress of those clearing the streets.

The first initial sweep is expected to be finished by May 15th. McCarthy said at least a few other sweeps will also take place during the summer.