As Chief Engineer of NCDOT, I help coordinate ice and snow removal efforts statewide – but 15 years ago, I was one of the guys working at the local level to prepare for a storm. Today, I’m reminded of what it was like working those long hours in tough conditions.
Not only will it be cold, but it could be dangerous.
We’ve been in constant contact with our engineers in the field to make sure everyone is equipped and ready to go when winter weather hits. NCDOT crews have laid salt brine on the roads to prevent ice from forming on the pavement. Our maintenance yards are fully stocked with salt to help melt ice and snow. Snow plows and other snow removal equipment are fully functional and ready to help keep the roads clear during and after the storm.
Crews are prepared to work overtime this weekend, scheduling special shifts and keeping additional staff on standby to ensure they can adequately respond to storm conditions. Times like now, we work as one team - those that see minimal bad weather will be able to move their staff and equipment if necessary to places that have been harder hit.
It will be a long weekend for a number of NCDOT employees, many of whom are leaving their families at home while they work to keep the roads safe for you and your loved ones. I encourage everyone to try and be where you need to be by midnight tonight and stay off the roads this weekend so we can keep our crews, and your families, as safe as possible.