CHESTERFIELD, Va. -- As the threat of winter weather rolled into the region, VDOT crews said pretreatment of roads was complete Thursday morning, and crews were on standby.
Crews got to work as early as Wednesday evening, laying a saltwater brine solution on interstates particularly in the southeast where the winter weather was expected to come through.
That solution helps prevent ice from bonding with the pavement.
After completing pretreatment, crews said they would monitor and treat roads throughout the region that became slick or icy. They planned to lay straight salt and sand during and even after winter weather conditions to break down any ice.
VDOT Spokesperson Bethany Glover said they'd focus first on interstates, and then move to primary and secondary roads.
She said drivers can be prepared by checking Virginia 511 and other outlets for conditions, reducing speed when on the road, and giving snowplows plenty of room to work.
Glover said crews would move into 12-hour shifts once any snow or ice moved in and planned to work through the night.
"Once we start seeing snow falling, crews are going to be on the lookout and ready to go," said Glover. "We’re really going to be paying attention tonight as well to wet roadways to make sure no flash freezing is occurring. And if it does, that we’re tackling those areas with salt and sand to break down that ice and give drivers traction."
Glover added to be cautious on bridges, overpasses, and ramps which are more likely to freeze first.
