Introduction
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has been given
statutory authority for the planning, design, construction, operation
and maintenance of the State Highway System. A key component of
the maintenance of certain highways is the control of snow and ice.
For many years TxDOT maintenance forces have strived to provide
a safe travel way during winter conditions while keeping traffic
delays to a minimum.
The maintenance of Texas highways is increasingly challenged
in that higher public expectations and increasing traffic are complicating
operations. To maintain satisfactory levels of service, TxDOT must
strive for maximum effectiveness from its management, crews, equipment
and materials. The snow and ice program is no exception.
The priorities for snow and ice operations are:
- Heavier traveled sections of streets and highways.
- Known trouble spots, such as bridge decks, steep grades, sharp curves intersections and ramps.
- Routes near hospitals, emergency facilities and schools.
- Lighter traveled sections of streets and highways.
Snow and ice control is performed as necessary to facilitate
the safe, effective and efficient movement of people and goods in
accordance with best management practices. What are best management
practices for effective snow and ice control? Although many factors
are involved, timing is critical. The time and effort required to
plow or clear roadways dramatically increases once snow and ice
bond to the roadway. TxDOT must prepare in advance and make a timely
response to snow and ice with trained personnel, fully functioning
and well-maintained equipment, adequate supplies of sand, salt,
or other materials, and methods for communicating with one another
as well as the traveling public.