John R. Christian Fire Chief | Barrington Fire Department
John R. Christian Fire Chief | Barrington Fire Department
The Village of Barrington has been honored with the American Public Works
Association (APWA) Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award for 2025. This
distinction highlights Barrington’s commitment to exceptional snow and ice
management, placing it among only 11 Illinois agencies and 45 agencies across
North America to receive this recognition since the award program began in
2008.
Barrington’s snow and ice control program features state-of-the-art
technologies and sustainable practices. Key achievements include reducing rock
salt use by over 25% in two years, utilizing GPS-equipped snowplows, and
incorporating real-time weather data to enhance decision-making. The program
ensures the safety and mobility of residents across more than 45 lane miles of
streets, 5.6 lane miles of highways, 24 parking lots, 44 alleys, 81 cul-de-
sacs, 16,000 linear feet of sidewalk, and the Metra Commuter Train Station.
Fred Braun, Director of Public Works, expressed his pride in the recognition:
"This award reflects the tireless work of Barrington’s Public Works First
Responders. " Braun has previously received the same honor during his tenure at
the Village of Niles, marking the second time he has led a department to this
distinction.
Village President Karen Darch and Village Manager Scott Anderson both praised
the Public Works team’s dedication to sustainability, safety, and efficiency
in snow and ice management.
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