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District of Columbia Winter Snow Plan–Snow and Ice Control
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) works closely with the Department of Public Works (DPW) to clear snow and ice from District roadways and bridges. Together, DDOT and DPW clear and make safe approximately 2,295 lane miles, bridges, overpasses and ramps. DDOT and DPW also work closely with the Mayor and other District agencies when deciding to declare and enforce snow emergencies. If a snow emergency is declared residents must immediately relocate any vehicles parked on snow emergency routes.
The District of Columbia begins planning for winter weather months in advance. Equipment must be serviced, vehicles inspected, personnel trained, supplies ordered and snow removal routes evaluated to ensure readiness for the first flake, or the first icy downpour of freezing rain.
As in other jurisdictions, public safety determines the priority for snow removal in the District. Clearing and salting efforts focus first on major roads, commuter thoroughfares and designated Snow Emergency Routes*. Streets that are narrow, steep, or shaded, receive special attention, as do those streets scheduled for next-day trash collection.
For the 2008-2009 snow season, DPW and the Department of Transportation (DDOT) have taken delivery of 33 new light plow vehicles. The new equipment allows the Snow Team to divide the city's neighborhoods into smaller, more manageable routes. There are now 82 light plow routes, up from 49 in previous years. Also, there are now three shifts of drivers to provide continuing coverage in the event of an extended storm. Residents are reminded to please be patient and allow sufficient time for snow operations to be implemented.
The District's Snow Team is committed to faster completion of plowing and salting along major roads and residential streets, which in turn means more rapid return of normal traffic flow and earlier resumption of trash collection and other city services.
Stay informed on the latest inclement weather reports and advisories with our Snow Alerts.
DDOT and DPW remind commuters and residents to:
- Remember that driving on ice is significantly different than driving on snow.
- Use extreme caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles.
- Remember even a 4-wheel drive SUV does not perform well in ice and additional safety measures should be followed.
- Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice which can be deceptive in its appearance giving the driver a false sense of security on the road.
- Watch for slippery bridge decks, even when the rest of the pavement is in good condition. Bridge decks will ice up sooner than the adjacent pavement.
- Remember to keep a safe distance from emergency and snow vehicles and please use caution when attempting to pass a snowplow. Give the drivers plenty of room to safely do their jobs.
- Clear all the snow and ice from your vehicle's windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving.
- Help your elderly or disabled neighbors remove snow from steps and sidewalks.
- Clear catch basins and fire hydrants.
- Please do not put snow in the street. Put all cleared snow, from parked cars and sidewalks, in the "tree box," front yard, or between the curb and sidewalk.
For more information on the District of Columbia Winter Snow Plan, please select from the following:
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