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VDOT prepared for snow, ice

Jan 5, 2010 | Associated Press | Star-Tribune News

As the 2009-2010 winter season approaches, emergency response, including snow- and ice-removal operations, continues unchanged as a core service of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

"We remain committed to our mission as an emergency response agency. During winter weather, drivers in Virginia count on us to keep people, services and goods moving safely from one corner of the commonwealth to the other," said David S. Ekern, VDOT commissioner. "While VDOT is making tough decisions to balance a significant revenue shortfall, our snow- and ice-removal standards will not change."

With a snow-removal budget of $79.6 million, VDOT's preparations ensure that all state-maintained roads remain safe during the 2009-2010 winter season. VDOT has also budgeted $14.1 million for snow and ice removal on interstate and primary roads maintained through its interstate maintenance contracts.

"Together with our private-sector partners, VDOT begins preparing for winter long before the first sign of a snowflake." Ekern said. "We have tested equipment, prepared our crew members and stocked our supplies to provide the best possible emergency response when the snow and ice begin."

Last year, VDOT expanded the use of the latest anti-icing techniques and will continue to use these methods during the 2009-2010 snow season. Anti-icing involves applying chemicals to roadways before a storm to prepare the pavement and prevent a bond from forming between the surface and the snow and ice. VDOT will use anti-icing chemicals, including salt brine, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, on roads around the state this winter.

Preparations for winter weather begin every year in the summer and continue through the winter. This year, VDOT has 2,314 pieces of snow removal equipment, 3,146 crew members, 62,000 tons of sand and 239,000 tons of salt available to keep roads clear.

VDOT's goal is to have all roads passable within 48 hours after a storm ends. Crews first clear interstates, primary roads and major secondary roads that connect localities, fire stations, employment hubs, military posts, schools, hospitals and other important public facilities. They will then treat secondary roads and subdivision streets if multi-day storms hit the Virginia, but crews will focus efforts on those roads that carry the most traffic.