City of Edmonton Considers Controversial Return of Calcium Chloride for Winter Roads

The City of Edmonton is evaluating the potential return of calcium chloride for managing winter snow and ice buildup. This anti-icing agent was previously used on arterial and collector roads in 2017 and 2018, but generated significant controversy due to concerns over damage to vehicles, concrete, and infrastructure.

“

We are also responding to two motions from councillors earlier on in the year. One of them specifically asked us to look into the positives and negatives of calcium chloride, so this is that response.

The possible re-introduction of calcium chloride was highlighted in the city's recently released snow and ice policy report. Valerie Dacyk, the city's supervisor of snow and ice control, stated that the review is partly in response to council motions asking for an examination of the compound's benefits and drawbacks. The city conducted a two-year pilot program before discontinuing its use in 2019 amid mounting worries about its corrosive effects.

Calcium chloride has a lower freezing point than standard salt, making it effective at preventing snow from sticking to pavement. However, chemical engineers and mechanics have raised alarms about its highly corrosive nature, leading to increased vehicle rust, and damage to suspension and steering components. Auto experts note that even years later, they are still addressing issues stemming from its previous use. They suggest sand or salt as preferable alternatives for vehicle owners' protection.

“

It’s very highly corrosive, so we’re finding a lot of vehicle rust, suspension and steering components are rusting, corroding and breaking.

If the city decides to proceed, implementation would occur in two phases over 12 to 24 months, involving equipment acquisition and staff training. The report acknowledges that public opinion regarding calcium chloride remains largely unfavorable. Councillor Thu Parmar indicated that her constituents are also opposed to its use, and she plans to gather more information on the pros and cons before making a decision.

“

My residents… they would be on the side of not using calcium chloride. I’m gonna get some more information from administration on what are the pros and cons.