VDOT to Motorists: Stay Home

By WYDaily Staff Monday, December 27, 2010

The Virginia Department of Transportation continues to address the weekend storm's impact, but they could use a little help from motorists who choose to stay home and off the roads. Conditions remain difficult throughout the area, with freezing temperatures producing a layer of ice over yesterday's snow.

 

Teams will continue to plow and treat state-maintained roads until clear, first directing forces to interstate and primary routes. Once the majority of interstates and state-maintained primary routes are passable, teams will start to address high-volume secondary roads. Crews hope to begin clearing rural secondary roads by Tuesday, Dec. 28.

Today’s anticipated frigid temperatures will make clearing efforts difficult. Snow teams may begin to haul snow away from usable lanes with loaders if temperatures do not raise high enough to start melting the snow and ice that is packed on the roadways. Snow drifts may also become an increasing issue as wind gusts are forecasted to reach 35 miles per hour on the Southside and over 40 miles per hour on the Eastern Shore.

The High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) reversible roadway is closed this morning as clearing efforts are being focused on the mainline interstate. Drivers should expect slushy and slippery road conditions throughout the region today, especially on flyovers, bridges, ramps and overpasses. Delayed travel or telecommuting is advised, if possible.

It is the Virginia Department of Transportation’s goal to have all state-maintained roads passable within 48 hours after a storm ends; meaning drivable, but with caution. Road conditions in Hampton Roads range from minor to moderate. All major roads are open to traffic. Notable concerns include:

Severe icy conditions reported on I-664 on the Peninsula
Severe icy conditions reported on all Southside interstates
Icy condition warnings are posted for all area bridges and tunnels; reduced speeds are advised
On the Eastern Shore, Route 13 and 175 have reported severe conditions with deep snow and ice accumulation; driving with extreme caution is advised
All state-maintained primary roads are considered in moderate to severe conditions
State-maintained secondary road conditions are noted as severe (Routes 600 and above)

Motorists should not travel if at all possible. If travel is necessary, VDOT cautions drivers to utilize the plowed travel lanes and stay clear of the snow teams clearing the roads.

Interstate maintenance contractors have begun plowing travel lanes in tandem to improve conditions on multiple lanes at a time, expediting the clearing process. Drivers are warned against passing snowplows and spreaders unless it is absolutely necessary—remember that these crews are working to improve road conditions.

Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511. Traffic alerts and traveler information also are available online by clicking here. You may also access road conditions by clicking here.

To report a maintenance issue, call VDOT’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623).

Primary and secondary routes in Hampton Roads’ cities are treated by the individual city.  For information about snow removal in your neighborhood, contact your city’s public works department.

Road Condition Definitions:
Severe – drifting or partially blocked roads; deep snow or ice present. Snow tires or chains are necessary.
Moderate – snow or ice on major portions of the roadway. Snow tires or chains are advisable.
Minor – bare pavement except for isolated spots of snow, ice or slush. Driving with caution is recommended.