VDOT plans for winter weather
Despite all of the excitement that comes with the snow, the inclement weather can cause a struggle to keep the traffic flowing both on and off campus.
Plowing — Liberty works in addition to VDOT to keep campus roads clear of snow. Photo credit: Ruth Bibby
The Lynchburg District of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is taking necessary measures to prepare the roads to withstand the snowy weather.
“We are committed to do everything in our ability to respond to the storm using the equipment that we have,” Paula Jones, the communications manager for the VDOT Lynchburg District, said.
“The VDOT does some pre-treatment of roads in areas that expect snow by applying chemicals like salt brine, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride to roadways to prepare the pavement. And when the snow does accumulate on the roads, they treat the roads by using the snowplow car,” Jones said.
VDOT’s website states that crews have readied their snowplows, checked salt and sand supplies, and are fully mobilized in anticipation of the winter weather.
According to representative Tamara Rollison, VDOT has 2,424 pieces of state equipment, approximately 7,144 pieces of hired equipment and 818 pieces of interstate contractor equipment ready for snow- and ice-related activities.
VDOT’s website says that during a snow storm, it is safest to stay indoors due to the fact that about 70 percent of deaths related to ice and snow occur in automobiles.
VDOT offers helpful tips when driving in winter weather.
“Here are some driving tips when you find yourself driving on slippery roads,” Jones said. “Slow down and give extra time to reach your destination. Keep a distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles. Take extra caution when driving areas that may potentially be icy, such as shady spots and bridges.”
VDOT highly recommends that drivers stay off the road if possible, but also advises that drivers check the road conditions before getting on the road by calling 511 or logging in at 511virginia.org to get real-time information about weather and road conditions for all major highways in Virginia. When on the road, drivers can also call 511 from any telephone or download VDOT’s 511 mobile application to keep up with any changes that may occur.
According to VDOT’s recent press release regarding their plans after the snowstorm, it is their goal to have their crew clear out interstates, primary roads and major secondary roads that connect important public facilities, such as fire stations, hospitals and schools, within 48 hours after a winter storm. Secondary roads and subdivision roads will be treated accordingly, depending on the severity of the storm.