The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is gearing up for winter weather as the holiday travel season approaches, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining road safety. During a media briefing on Tuesday, TxDOT officials, alongside representatives from AAA and the TxDOT HERO Program, outlined their strategies for ensuring safe travel amid potential winter storms.
Tucker Ferguson, the engineer for the TxDOT Austin district, emphasized the need to keep critical roadways open during storms, stating, “Our team is standing by ready 24/7 to make sure the roadways are passable for those who need them most, including our emergency responders.” This proactive approach aims to assist the expected surge in travelers, with AAA projecting around 5.3 million Texans will be on the road this Thanksgiving, highlighting the desire for families to connect and spend time together.
In preparation, TxDOT Austin has increased its supply of brine and magnesium chloride threefold since 2021 to effectively prevent and melt ice on Texas roads. The district is also well-equipped for winter operations, maintaining over 150 pieces of equipment and employing 270 crew members.
Safety on the roads remains a priority, particularly with the enforcement of Texas’ “slow down, move over” law, which commands drivers to either shift lanes or reduce their speed significantly when encountering emergency vehicles with flashing lights. AAA’s Daniel Armbruster pointed out the tragic statistics, noting that an average of 24 roadside workers are harmed or killed each year due to distracted driving or non-compliance with this law.
Furthermore, the TxDOT HERO Program offers vital roadside assistance from Monday to Friday, operating from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and extending its hours on I-35, providing free services such as fuel delivery, tire changes, and water to stranded motorists.
TxDOT advises drivers to stay informed by checking weather updates and road conditions through DriveTexas.org before hitting the road. They urge motorists to exercise caution during winter weather, minimize distractions, refrain from drinking and driving, and ensure all passengers are buckled up for safety. With careful planning and adherence to safety guidelines, Texas drivers can navigate the holiday season with greater confidence and security.