New Philadelphia Faces Nearly Double Road Salt Costs This Winter
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Aug. 17, 2026) – New Philadelphia is bracing to pay nearly twice as much for road salt this winter.
Service Director Ron McAbier told city council the city secured a bid through ODOT at $92 a ton, but the salt will have to be picked up near Mansfield. With trucking added in, the total cost rises to $117 a ton, compared with $62.25 last year.
McAbier says New Philadelphia plans to purchase 1,300 tons this season for a total of $152,100. Last year, the city bought 1,200 tons for just over $74,700.
He says the city originally sought 1,600 tons but reduced that amount.
Other communities are feeling the pinch, too. Regional supplies are low after heavy winter use earlier this year, and some suppliers have not submitted initial bids through ODOT purchasing contracts.
He also says the salt won’t be available for pickup until January 15th, raising concerns about how much of the winter the city will have to get through before receiving the bulk of its supply.
Law Director Marvin Fete asked whether state lawmakers could help address the issue. McAbier says he and the mayor plan to raise the concern with State Senator Al Landis and State Representative Jodi Salvo, saying the higher salt cost will take money away from other street materials, including paving supplies.