With the first snow of the season in the forecast, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) Northwest Region is urging motorists to be prepared and slow down in the event of severe weather.
“Maintenance staff doesn’t wait until snow is expected to start preparing. We start planning early this fall so we’re ready when the temperatures turn cold.” said Aaron Fox, PennDOT District 1 administrative assistant. Plans are in place to cover night shifts as needed to keep roads safe and clear. ”
All counties in District 1, including Crawford, Erie, Forest, Mercer, Venango, and Warren, are implementing preventive maintenance, installing plows on dump trucks, preparing other equipment, and installing materials such as salt and cleats. We have started stockpiling. , will be well supplied for the upcoming winter season.
District 1 snow removal routes vary in length from 40 to 70 miles and can take 1 to 4 hours to complete depending on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors. Typically, the busiest roads, such as interstates, are prioritized, followed by other major roads such as Route 62 and Route 8, and then rural routes.
In District 1, PennDOT maintains 8,531 miles of snow lanes through the hard work of approximately 360 operators and 37 mechanics. The Department is recruiting additional licensed CDL equipment operators, mechanics, welders, and clerks for temporary and full-time positions. Those interested in working for PennDOT can apply online at www.employment.pa.gov.
“We ask the public to remember that safety is the responsibility of all road users. When driving in winter weather, drive at a safe speed appropriate to the conditions. “Please keep your headlights on and don’t get too close to the back of the snow plow,” Fox said.
Motorists should allow extra time during their commute to make sure they have essential items in their cars, such as food, water, blankets, extra gloves and hats, cell phone chargers, body warmers, foot warmers, and windshield brushes. , you must do your part to prepare for potential winter weather. Specialty items such as scrapers, medicines and baby and pet supplies.