RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Erika Johnson 757-925-2584 erika.johnson@virginiadot.org

HRO-0344 Dec. 5, 2003

VDOT READY FOR HAMPTON ROADS WINTER WEATHER

Virginia Department of Transportation crews are ready all its resources for the first snowfall of the season. Snow fighting chemicals are stored, the snowplows are ready, and crews are well rehearsed on snow removal routes. VDOT are well rehearsed on the measures it takes to ensure the best use of manpower and equipment during winter weather.

This winter in the Hampton Roads district, which includes the Southside, Peninsula, western Tidewater, the Eastern Shore, and four bridge tunnel facilities. Typically 450 VDOT employees and about 225 pieces of snow removal equipment are ready. There is more than 35,000 tons of salt, sand and abrasives available in the event of a snowstorm. Private contractors with snow removal equipment are on call if more help is needed. VDOT has budgeted $80 million for snow removal statewide. An amount of $2.8 million has been budgeted for snow removal in the Hampton Roads district.

VDOT plows the interstates in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach Hampton and Newport News and county roads. When a storm hits, VDOT first plows interstates and major primary routes, next the minor primary routes (numbered lower than 600), then the secondary roads (numbered 600 and above), and finally subdivision streets.

Roads with high traffic volume or roads with many curves, hills or bridges may move up the priority list. Local public works crews clear all other roads in these cities. VDOT snow removal crews work around the clock in 12-hour shifts until conditions are safe for traveling.

VDOT’s Emergency Operation Center monitors storms through a statewide information system and is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To keep motorists informed of trouble spots, VDOT’s Smart Traffic Center uses its resources which include: electronic message signs and video cameras along interstate highways to give travelers timely information on road conditions, incidents and detours. They also put the most up to date information on highway advisory radio: (610 AM)

Travelers may also get current road condition reports from VDOT via computer or telephone. A winter weather road condition map is available at VDOT’s web site, VirginiaDOT.org. During a storm, color-coded maps are updated every 10 minutes showing roads that are snow-covered, icy or wet.

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VDOT Snow Preparation
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Winter Weather Driving Tips
If you must drive during or after a winter storm, the Virginia Department of Transportation offers these safety tips:

* Before beginning your trip, know the current road conditions. Call 1-800-367-ROAD for statewide conditions or go to VirginiaDOT.org. Keep your windows, mirrors and lights clear of ice and snow.
* Always wear lap and shoulder safety belts.
* Leave early to allow extra time to get to your destination.
* Be alert for potential driving hazards including downed branches, trees, electric lines and icy areas, such as shady spots and bridges.
* Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles, including trucks that are plowing the road.
* Don’t pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary.
* Don’t park along the street. Snowplow drivers can’t fully clear a road if cars are in their way.
* Don’t abandon your vehicle. If you must, leave it as far off the roadway as possible to avoid hampering snow removal operations.
* Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car including tire chains, small shovel, rock salt, sand or cat litter for emergency traction, snow brush, ice scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, blanket, extra clothing and snack.
* Drive smart. You cannot start, stop or turn as easily on snow or ice as you can on dry pavement. Take your time and drive defensively.