Commuters Urged to Plan Ahead for Thursday Snow

Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) employees stated in a press release just issued that they will have some crews out tonight monitoring the roads for icy or slick areas due to re-freezing, especially on bridges and ramps.  The release said their crews will treat slick areas with salt as needed.  Icy patches may be hard to see, so they encourage motorists to slow down

With snow accumulation in the forecast beginning tomorrow evening, MoDOT managers indicated they are ready to attack the winter storm. The snow accumulation is expected to continue during Thursday morning’s rush-hour, which will create slick conditions. MoDOT officials urge motorists to plan ahead for their Thursday morning commute and to make arrangements now, such as altering travel times or telecommuting.

"Staff is monitoring the weather forecast and has all our crews (450) and trucks (220) available to plow the snow expected for this week and treat the roads with salt," said Bruce Pettus, MoDOT maintenance superintendent for the St. Louis area.

MoDOT managers indicate they will focus on plowing the highest-traveled major roads (interstates) and regionally significant roads (such as Lindbergh, Olive and Manchester) first until they are mostly clear.  Crews will plow the remaining less-traveled roads, concentrating on hills, curves and intersections, to allow for safe travel. "These less-traveled roads carry fewer than 2,500 vehicles per day," Pettus said.

In the St. Louis area, he said the small volume roads are primarily located in the western and southern sections of Franklin, Jefferson and St. Charles counties.

Before traveling, motorists can view an online Traveler Information Map, which gives an updated view of weather-related road conditions for major Missouri highways. Travelers also can call MoDOT's customer service center for road conditions at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (888-275-6636). The toll-free phone line is answered 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.