ABILENE, Texas — The Texas Department of Transportation announced Thursday its crews have begun pre-treating Abilene roadways in preparation for winter weather expected Saturday night.
According to a TxDOT press release, crews across the 13-county district are treating Tier 1 and 2 roadways, which include high-traffic corridors such as I-20, US Hwy 84 from Roscoe to the Garza County line, US Hwy 83/84 and US Hwy 277, among others.
The brine mixture will help prevent ice from bonding to roadways and structures as the wintry weather begins to fall.
The Abilene District is working with the National Weather Service to monitor the weather conditions. TxDOT's priority is the traveling public's safety.
Crews will work consistently and in shifts to prepare for and respond to any wintry weather, as well as monitoring and treating roadways as needed.
TxDOT asks drivers to do their part by driving carefully and following these guidelines:
- Use caution when driving over bridges and overpasses, as temperatures can be colder on elevated surfaces.
- Reduce speed and drive with caution. A vehicle needs more distance to stop on a slick roadway. Do not apply the brakes suddenly and do not use cruise control, so that you can better maintain control if you encounter slippery roads.
- Slow down when approaching emergency or maintenance vehicles, especially when their flashing lights are on. The law requires you to maintain a distance of at least 200 feet when approaching a snowplow, and never pass on the right. Visibility can also be reduced during winter weather conditions.
- Be patient. Your trip time – including short commutes to work – could increase when adverse weather conditions exist. Also, keep to the main roads and avoid taking roads that may not have been plowed.
- Winterize vehicles before traveling during adverse weather. Check fuel, tire conditions, oil and antifreeze levels. Make sure heater, brakes and windshield wipers are working properly.
- Check area weather conditions on radio or television before starting a trip.
Drivers can check real-time roadway conditions by visiting DriveTexas.org or following @TxDOTABILENE.
