ODOT asks that you give snow plows room to work this weekend
ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Snow plows are going to be what helps keep our roads clear in the upcoming winter storm, which is why ODOT is asking you to give them room to work.
At the time of reporting, the Ohio Department of Transportation says 34 plow hit this winter season, which takes away valuble snow fighting equipment. That’s why ODOT’s Chas Cosgrave is reminding drivers to give them room. He says if you see flashing lights, move over and slow down. According to Cosgrave, the best way to help them clear the roads is to avoid driving altogether.
“If you don’t have to travel, don’t travel. Like I’ve said, we’ve been really fortunate, though the amounts have been increasing, which certainly isn’t fortunate, we’ve seen this coming,” Cosgrave said. “So, if you have plans Saturday into Sunday, now’s the time to look at cancelling those if you can, rescheduling those things, staying off the roadway. If you have to be on the roadway, make sure you have some supplies with you. ”
Supplies like blankets, water, cell phone chargers, and some snacks can make a difference if you have to wait for help in a snowstorm on the road. ODOT will be working around the clock to clear the streets, but as Cosgrave explains, that doesn’t mean the roads will be perfect after they’ve come through.
“So here in Muskingum County specifically, we have 24 works that we’re going to be running around the clock. We have 1,500 trucks state-wide. We’re going to be on 12-hour shifts, starting at noon tomorrow and those will keep going until we get these roads taken care of and cleaned up,” Cosgrave said. “We also like to remind people, you know, during a storm, our goal is passable not perfect. You know, as the snow falls, especially with the rate that we have coming up, passable is our goal while the storm is actively coming in.”
Make sure to check in with WHIZ stations and online to stay up to date on road conditions and closures during the winter storm and to pay close attention to any snow level emergencies declared by your county sheriff’s office.
