Mark Geib, the administrator for MDOT’s Transportation Systems Management and Operations Division, said, “We’re going to be just fine. We have highly trained people, we have the material we need, our equipment has been inspected and is ready to go. We’re in good shape.”
MDOT has budgeted at least $25 million for road salt with 450,000 tons of salt stored throughout the state and has 330 plow trucks at the ready. MDOT also contracts with counties to clear highways bringing the number of plows available to 1300 statewide. There are over 10,000 miles of state highway to keep safe and clear of snow and ice.
MDOT is using a salt spray on some roads in the state, continuing a program that started last winter. The spray prevents the salt from flying off of the road.
Seasonal snowplow drivers are in the process of being interviewed and hired right now, as many are winding down seasonal construction jobs. MDOT anticipates having adequate staffing.
Reporting for WGRT -Jennie McClelland
