Olivet Residents Face Tough Winter Conditions

By Braeden Jones

Photo: Braeden Jones

OLIVET, Mich. —  The city of Olivet has dealt with hazardous weather that has impacted many people in town and on campus throughout the month of January. Olivet has had to deal with several issues due to the weather, including rough roads and sidewalks, and problems for commuters. 

According to the National Weather Service, in January, Olivet dealt with a total of 16.1 inches of snow with an average of 3.7 inches. These conditions have been a massive issue for both the community and the University of Olivet. One problem that has arisen from the weather is that of the sidewalks. According to Jerry Staggs, the Department of Public Works Director for the city of Olivet, the sidewalks are “mostly, the responsibility of residents.”

One of the sidewalks that leads away from Olivet Middle School and High School. Photo: Braeden Jones

“It's been a strong winter. But you know, we're able to keep up. I got two guys that work long, but we stay as long as it takes, and if it gets late, then we'll take a break, and start back the next morning,” said Staggs.

The temperature has also been an issue. Last month, Olivet had an average temperature of 21.2 degrees, with several days below freezing. The weather has also affected the roads. With the state of Michigan facing a statewide salt shortage, communities such as Eaton Rapids, which resides in Eaton County, along with Olivet, have had to make changes with the amount of salt they can use and where they use it.

“From what I understand, it’s not so much a salt shortage as it is a delivery shortage. Everybody’s trying to get it,” said Staggs.

The cold has also been an issue in other ways. According to Johnny Lopez, Chief of Police.

“We've had three [water main breaks] that affected some of our roads,” Lopez said.

“J&J excavating comes in and helps us out. They dig it up and we get it fixed as fast as possible,” said Staggs.

The main water break that is located across the street from Olivet Middle School and High School. Photo: Braeden Jones

For the University of Olivet, the weather has posed a challenge for several people on campus. Last month, several activities, such as sports and New Member Intake for Greek organizations on campus (also known as pledging), needed to be moved indoors out of concern for its students. The weather has been a major issue for students and staff who have to commute to campus.

Junior Katie Rugg, who commutes to campus from Charlotte, says that her drive usually takes 20 minutes, but with the weather, it now takes her 30-35 minutes.

“If I have early classes during this time of year, there’s a lot of snow and ice on the roads. Half the time I can’t go until I wait for the sun to come out and melt some of the ice on the roads,” said Rugg. 

With the weather letting up in the near future, the citizens of Olivet can expect slightly warmer weather and less snow.