In the heart of winter, while many seek refuge indoors, a dedicated group of construction workers in Monroe County face the elements head-on. Despite the biting cold and harsh winds, these professionals continue to advance crucial projects. Workers emphasize the importance of proper attire and constant movement to combat the chilly conditions. They share personal insights into how they cope with the cold and reveal a surprising preference for winter over summer's intense heat.

Bundled Up and Ready: Layering for Survival

The key to enduring outdoor work during winter lies in preparation. Workers from Northeast Site Contractors demonstrate this by donning multiple layers of clothing. For them, loving both their job and the outdoors is essential. The cold poses significant challenges, particularly for hands and feet, which bear the brunt of the low temperatures. Laborer William Wilson explains that manipulating tools becomes difficult when fingers are numb, highlighting the need for specialized gear to maintain dexterity and warmth.

To further illustrate the importance of layering, Wilson reveals his personal strategy: seven layers on top ensure he stays warm enough to perform tasks efficiently. He emphasizes that a passion for the outdoors and dedication to one’s profession make enduring such conditions more manageable. The crew working on a parking lot in Stroud Township underscores the necessity of being well-prepared for winter weather, as it significantly impacts daily operations and safety.

Movement Equals Warmth: Staying Active on the Job

In Stroudsburg Borough, Balchune Construction teams are busy preparing rebar for concrete as part of an expansion project at the Stroud Mansion. Here, the mantra is simple yet effective—keep moving. Jared Risch, a member of the crew, stresses that continuous activity is the best defense against the cold. He advises that stopping even for a moment can lead to a rapid drop in body temperature, making it crucial to stay active throughout the day.

Risch and his colleagues express a clear preference for winter's chill over summer's scorching heat. They explain that while adding or removing layers is possible in colder weather, extreme heat offers no such relief. Both Wilson and Risch agree that recent weeks have been particularly cold but emphasize that they have faced worse conditions before. Their resilience shines through as they reflect on the challenges and rewards of their profession, noting that at least they are not working in snow—a small consolation in the grand scheme of things.