Johnson City Preps for Second Winter Storm

Public Works Director says department is well-stocked on salt and ready to work around the clock

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:31pm

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Johnson City's Public Works Department is prepared to tackle another weekend of winter weather, according to Director Jason Miles. The department has plenty of salt in storage and has ordered an additional 1500 tons to supplement their supply. Crews will be working 12-hour shifts starting Friday evening to clear roads, with plans to work on an on-call basis on Sunday as needed.

Why it matters

With a winter storm warning in effect and predictions of 3-9 inches of snow, Johnson City's proactive approach to road maintenance and snow removal is crucial to ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions for residents and businesses.

The details

In addition to the salt supply, Miles said his crews are continuing to pre-treat roads with a calcium chloride-brine solution effective down to -4°F. Public works crews will be working around the clock in 12-hour shifts starting at 5pm on Friday, and will continue this schedule as needed through the weekend.

  • Over the past two weeks, the department has used around 800 tons of salt to counteract the impacts of Winter Storm Fern.
  • The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning through Saturday night for Johnson City and much of East Tennessee.
  • As of Friday afternoon, snow accumulation over the weekend is predicted to be anywhere between 3 and 9 inches.

The players

Jason Miles

The Public Works Director for the city of Johnson City, responsible for overseeing snow removal and road maintenance operations.

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What they’re saying

“We don't ever let our salt supply get too low.”

— Jason Miles, Public Works Director

“We are fully prepared to go as long as we need to… and we'll continue this same schedule. We prioritize safety.”

— Jason Miles, Public Works Director

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Johnson City's Public Works Department is taking a proactive and comprehensive approach to snow removal and road maintenance, ensuring the community is prepared to safely weather the upcoming winter storm.