EAST WHITELAND TWP, PA — As the winter months approach, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has detailed its comprehensive strategy for maintaining road safety across the Philadelphia region. During a briefing Tuesday at the Swedesford Road and Route 29 maintenance stockpile yard in Chester County, PennDOT emphasized its commitment to public safety and outlined preparations for the impending winter season.
PennDOT District 6, responsible for over 10,000 snow-lane miles spanning Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties, has allocated more than $18 million for winter operations. This extensive preparation includes a fleet of 182 state-owned snowplows and 263 private contractor trucks, supported by a substantial stockpile of over 110,000 tons of salt. The agency’s primary focus during inclement weather will be to keep interstates, expressways, and major roadways clear, ensuring that all routes remain passable.
Thomas Rogal, Senior Assistant District Executive of Maintenance, reiterated the department’s dedication to safety, stating, “Our crews are prepared to deliver the best possible service no matter what the weather brings to our region. Our top priority every day is public safety, especially during inclement weather, which is why planning for the winter season occurs throughout the year.”
In addition to the state-operated resources, 92 municipalities in the Philadelphia region have entered into winter maintenance agreements with PennDOT. These partnerships cover over 3,500 snow-lane miles, allowing local crews to salt and plow designated state roads efficiently.
Public cooperation remains vital in ensuring road safety. PennDOT urges motorists to drive cautiously, maintain safe distances, and avoid distractions, particularly during winter storms. Last winter, aggressive driving behaviors contributed to 151 crashes on snowy or icy roads in Pennsylvania, resulting in three fatalities and 55 injuries.
To bolster its workforce during the winter, PennDOT is actively seeking temporary equipment operators to support its full-time staff. Candidates must possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and can apply through the state’s employment portal.
PennDOT also advises drivers to be prepared for adverse weather conditions by carrying an emergency kit in their vehicles. Essential items include non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, a small shovel, and a cell phone charger. Additionally, motorists can stay informed about road conditions through the MyChesCo Traffic Center, which offers real-time updates on traffic delays and road speeds.
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