HOWELL (AP) - Michigan is bringing in a new type of snow plow this winter, one that can clear widths up to 25 feet.

The state Department of Transportation says the Tow Plow costs $93,000, and with regular maintenance has an average service life of 30 years. That compares with a 10-year average for a standard plow.

State transportation officials say that by using the Tow Plow, crews can clear both the travel lane and shoulder in one pass, reducing the time needed to plow the freeway during a winter storm.
MDOT says Missouri, Minnesota, Maine, Wisconsin, Utah and Ohio also use Tow Plows.

According to the transportation department, the first Tow Plow in Michigan will be used on Interstate 96 and US-23 in Livingston County starting this month.

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