DOT officials say rough winter taking toll on road budgets

Potholes are blooming like spring flowers, making streets look more like the surface of the moon.

The cycle of snow, ice and rain has taken a toll on roads and budgets.

North Carolina Department of Transportation budgeted $40 million for the winter and already has used $61 million, with $3.5 million in district 10, which includes Mecklenburg County.

The numbers don't include the storm Monday night.
 
Charlotte's DOT budgeted $150,000 for materials and equipment. They've spent $580,000 when you include overtime and contractor fees.
 
Some said that's too much.
 
"They've put salt down unnecessarily," said Melissa Alvelo.
 
Charlotte said it can juggle dollars from the general fund.
 
The state told Channel 9 it will have to make sacrifices; for example, "a pothole in a travel lane would get repairs, but maybe not on a shoulder," or they "may have to mow the grass or pick up litter less often."
 
Some think it will all work out and hope the potholes are filled soon.
 
"They will find the money," said William Huntley.

WSOC