BOONE – Temperatures are cooling, leaves are changing and N.C. Department of Transportation staff are getting ready for another winter season.
Crews in Watauga County spent Wednesday inspecting equipment from chainsaws to snowplows to make sure everything is in optimal operating condition before wintry weather comes to the high country.
Staff also drove their assigned routes to mark any potential hazards like manholes, low-hanging limbs and other obstructions. Reviewing routes when they're dry lets crews find turnarounds and landmarks that could be obscured by snow.
“Preparing early is key to our winter weather response,” said Watauga County Maintenance Engineer Aaron Myers. “After today’s work, our equipment and team are ready for snow, ice and freezing temperatures in Watauga County.”
When winter weather hits, NCDOT crews work on 12-hour shifts until the weather event ends. In Watauga County, those crews utilize 13 trucks, three motor graders and one snow blower to keep state-maintained roads accessible. NCDOT also has seven contractors available in Watauga County who operate 18 additional trucks.
Visit this NCDOT website for more winter weather information including clearing priority and safety tips.
Bookmark www.DriveNC.gov and follow follow NCDOT on social media for updates when winter weather arrives.