HARRISBURG, PA — As winter approaches, PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are taking proactive steps to ensure that roads remain safe and accessible for motorists across the state. In a coordinated effort highlighted on Wednesday, both agencies detailed their winter preparations, which include new safety measures and equipment funded by Governor Josh Shapiro’s inaugural budget.
Central to these preparations is the implementation of Act 78 of 2024, which permits the use of green lights in addition to the traditional yellow (amber) lights on vehicles involved in construction and maintenance operations. This new measure, signed into law by Governor Shapiro on July 17, aims to enhance the visibility of these vehicles, thereby improving safety for both workers and motorists. “Keeping Pennsylvanians’ travel as safe as possible is at the core of PennDOT’s mission,” remarked Carroll, emphasizing the importance of these enhancements.
To further bolster safety, PennDOT has equipped its fleet with over 2,600 plow trucks integrated with Automated Vehicle Location technology. This system allows the public to access real-time information on the agency’s 511PA website, providing insights into plow truck locations and the status of state-maintained roadways. This transparency is intended to help drivers plan their journeys more effectively, particularly during inclement weather.
Preparations are extensive, with PennDOT budgeting over $186 million for statewide operations this winter. The department has stocked more than 728,000 tons of salt and is prepared to deploy approximately 4,700 on-the-road workers. Additionally, PennDOT is actively recruiting temporary equipment operators to enhance its winter workforce, ensuring the readiness and resilience of road maintenance efforts.
The PA Turnpike Commission is equally committed to maintaining road safety through its extensive winter strategy. With more than 600 equipment operators and safety patrol personnel on standby, the commission is poised to offer 24/7 support to travelers, aiming to keep the turnpike as clear of snow and ice as possible. Shuey, a representative of the commission, stressed the need for driver caution: “Drivers need to be aware of the conditions and drive accordingly. We have employees out there working to clear the roadway who want to get home to their families, so we ask drivers to give plenty of distance between them and the plow trucks.”
To prepare for potential winter conditions, motorists are advised to equip their vehicles with essential supplies, including food, water, blankets, and emergency equipment. Last winter, data indicated that aggressive driving on snowy or icy roads contributed to numerous accidents, highlighting the critical need for cautious driving.
These comprehensive measures reflect a broad commitment to ensuring safe travel throughout Pennsylvania during the challenging winter months. By investing in infrastructure and safety initiatives, PennDOT and the PA Turnpike are working to minimize disruptions and enhance the safety and efficiency of the state’s transportation network.
Motorists can easily check road conditions by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center, a valuable resource that is completely free and accessible 24 hours a day. This online platform provides real-time traffic delay warnings, giving drivers the information they need to plan their routes effectively. In addition to delay alerts, the MyChesCo Traffic Center also offers updates on accidents, road closures, and weather-related disruptions, ensuring that users stay informed about the best travel options available.
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