Lynchburg Public Works Battles Damaged Equipment After Ice Storm

Crews work to recover from winter weather, but trucks and plows have suffered serious damage.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:07pm

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Lynchburg Public Works crews have been working around the clock to clear the thick ice from the recent winter storm, but their equipment has taken a major hit in the process. Clay Simmons, the deputy director of Lynchburg Public Works, said they haven't seen a storm this bad in years, with large trucks even getting stuck on residential streets. The department's Fleet Services is working to repair all the damaged equipment, but they don't expect to finish until after the snow and ice removal is complete.

Why it matters

Lynchburg relies on its public works department to keep roads clear and safe during severe winter weather. The extensive damage to their trucks, plows, and other equipment threatens to slow down the city's recovery efforts and could impact residents' ability to travel safely.

The details

Lynchburg Public Works crews have been working tirelessly to remove the thick, heavy ice that accumulated during the recent winter storm. However, the constant pounding and strain on their vehicles has resulted in serious damage to their trucks and plows. Clay Simmons, the deputy director of the department, said they haven't seen a storm this bad in years, with even large trucks getting stuck on residential streets, which is highly unusual.

  • The winter storm hit Lynchburg in early February 2026.

The players

Lynchburg Public Works

The municipal department responsible for maintaining roads, infrastructure, and public services in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Clay Simmons

The deputy director of Lynchburg Public Works, overseeing the department's operations and response to the recent winter storm.

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What they’re saying

“We had a lot of damage on equipment this go around, kind of beating around on this ice. Even large trucks are getting stuck on residential streets, which is pretty rare.”

— Clay Simmons, Deputy Director, Lynchburg Public Works

What’s next

Lynchburg Public Works' Fleet Services department is working to repair all the damaged equipment, but they do not expect to finish until after the snow and ice removal is complete.

The takeaway

The extensive damage to Lynchburg Public Works' equipment during the recent ice storm highlights the challenges municipalities face in maintaining critical infrastructure and services during severe winter weather. The city's recovery efforts could be slowed, underscoring the importance of investing in resilient and well-maintained public works resources.