The Virginia Department of Transportation is fully engaged in preparations for the season’s first winter storm, which is expected to bring 2 to 3 feet of snow to the nine-county Culpeper District.
Yesterday, VDOT crews began brining operations on Interstate 64 in Albemarle and Louisa counties, I-66 in Fauquier County and primary highways throughout the region. Applying this salt solution prevents snow from bonding to the road surface and forming a layer of ice.
VDOT’s crews will come on duty as the storm begins to plow accumulated snow and treat roads with salt and sand. They will operate on 12-hour shifts during and after the storm, with a goal to have all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours after a storm ends.
Nearly 1,000 pieces of equipment have been readied for use in this storm. VDOT is working in close coordination with emergency services, utility companies and contractors for incident response. Wrecker services have been put on standby for assistance with stranded vehicles.
Motorists should not travel during the storm for safety and to allow VDOT crews to efficiently clear the roads. Get to your destination in advance of the snow and be prepared to shelter in place. As the weather improves, use VDOT’s free 511 tools to verify road conditions before travel.
Additional information about VDOT’s winter-weather preparations and response can be found at www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp.
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Chris Graham
