SUFFOLK–
VDOT continues its commitment to being responsive during snow events, and VDOT’s budget, materials, equipment and staffing are in place and ready for this event. Crews began pretreatment activities today, Feb. 19, 2020, spreading brine along the interstate system across Hampton Roads. Pretreatment will take place in Williamsburg, Franklin, and Accomac residencies beginning first thing tomorrow, Feb. 20. Brine increases the freezing temperature of the surface, helping to prevent ice on the road.
Motorists are advised to plan their trips around the storm, rather than through the storm, paying close attention to both beginning and end travel points, as those conditions can change. VDOT crews will be working around the clock to monitor and treat roads as needed.
NEW-Snow information videos with travel safety tips available for
download here
.
Photos and footage from the 2019-2020 Hampton Roads District Snow Press Conference held in Norfolk are available for
download here
.
VDOT equipment, materials:
For 2019-2020, VDOT Hampton Roads has a snow budget of $10,108,522. There are more than 470 pieces of equipment available for snow and ice-control activities, including trucks with plows and salt spreaders, as well as front end loaders and backhoes. VDOT also has the capability to bring on more hired equipment, depending on weather conditions.
Materials and supplies currently in stock for snow and ice removal in Hampton Roads include:
- 24,809 tons of salt,
- 18,136 tons of sand,
- 168,400 gallons of salt brine.
- The district supplies are fully stocked. VDOT replenishes supplies as they are used throughout the winter.
Road-clearing priorities:
VDOT’s goal is to have all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours
after
a winter storm ends,
if there are no additional accumulations.
Crews first begin clearing interstates, primary roads and major secondary roads that connect localities, fire stations, employment hubs, military posts, schools, hospitals and other important public facilities. Secondary roads and subdivision streets will be treated if multi-day storms hit the Commonwealth, but crews will focus efforts on those roads that carry the most traffic.
VDOT maintains all interstates, major state-maintained primary routes, and county roads in Hampton Roads. Individual municipalities maintain their own primary and secondary routes.
Have a plan before you drive:
- 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) -- Report road hazards or ask road-related questions at VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by calling this statewide toll-free number.
- Twitter -- Follow us @VaDOTHR and @511hamptonroads for the latest weather/traffic updates during a storm.
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