State, city budget cuts take toll on grass, weed maintenance

Tall grass and weeds along roadways are not only an eyesore, but there are concerns that they could be a safety factor for drivers. USA Today reports that budget deficits are impacting states and cities in their ability to mow along some roadways.

John Townsend, spokesperson for the AAA Mid-Atlantic, said motorists have been complaining to the organization about the tall grass. He said the grass is a safety issue and that in states where it may not be cut for years the grass could create problems along ramps and in intersections.

Prior to budget cuts, Virginia Dept. of Transportation mowed grass 4 to 6 times a year and spent about $42 million, reports the paper. The department is looking to reduce mowing to 1 to 3 times and slashing its budget by $20 million. In response to calls from citizens asking for permission to provide additional mowing and maintenance activities along Virginia’s primary and secondary highways, the department expanded its program to allow volunteers to assume responsibility for roadside maintenance. 

The newspaper reports that other states and cities have reduced budgets for mowing. Wisconsin cut its 2-year maintenance budget by 11% allowing for mowing just once a year unless tall grass impedes driver vision. Tennessee reduced its mowing schedules resulting in a $2 million budget cut. Texas’ efforts to reduce mowing operations saved nearly $25 million annually.