This one is True. The city of Holland, Michigan, actually has this system, and it’s a point of local pride.
It is the Largest in North America:
Holland, Michigan, began installing this “Snowmelt” system in 1988. It has since expanded to become the largest publicly-owned system of its kind in North America, covering over 690,000 square feet (roughly 16 acres) of downtown streets and sidewalks.
How Snowmelt System Works: The system is powered by “waste heat.”
The city uses water that has already been used to cool the turbines at the Holland Energy Park (a natural gas power plant). Instead of just dumping that warm water, they pump it through the city at about 95°F ($35$°C).
The Tubing: There are roughly 190 miles of PEX (plastic) tubing laid underneath the pavement.
The Result: It can melt about 1 inch of snow per hour in 20°F ($-7$°C) weather.3.
Why They Do It?: While it sounds expensive to build, it saves the city money in the long run.
- No Salt: They don’t have to use road salt, which prevents the “salt rot” that destroys concrete, cars, and bridges.
- No Plowing: They don’t need a fleet of plows or labor to clear the downtown area 24/7.
- Economic Boost: It keeps the downtown area walkable and vibrant all winter, which is great for local businesses.
