The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced its readiness to tackle the winter weather conditions expected in Southeast Tennessee. With replenished salt supplies across 24 counties in the region and prepared snowplows and brine trucks, TDOT is set to clear roadways of ice and snow efficiently.
Assistant Chief Engineer and Regional Director, Daniel Oliver, emphasized the department’s preparedness, stating, “Our salt bins are stocked, our equipment is prepared, and our employees are ready to mobilize in the event of inclement weather.” Ensuring the safety of motorists and maintaining traffic flow are top priorities for TDOT.
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For the 2024/2025 winter season, TDOT has allocated a budget of $5.1 million for winter weather coverage, which includes costs for salt, salt brine, overtime for employees, and equipment maintenance. In TDOT Region 2 alone, there are 75,276 tons of salt and 196,350 gallons of salt brine ready to treat 7,731 lane miles of interstates and state routes.
The use of salt brine, a mixture of salt and water, is crucial for pre-treating roads before a storm and for melting snow when temperatures are near freezing. Salt is applied once snow begins to accumulate on roads.
During snow events, TDOT’s ice and snow removal teams prioritize clearing interstates and heavily trafficked state routes, particularly targeting areas prone to freezing, such as hills, curves, ramps, bridges, and interchanges. Routes that are vital for connectivity in the Tennessee Valley and Upper Cumberland areas, including I-75, I-24, and I-40, as well as US routes 64, 27, 41, 41A, 127, and 70, and state routes SR 153, APD 40, SR 55, and SR 111, will be prioritized.
The Chattanooga area is anticipating its most significant snowfall in over a decade. TDOT advises motorists to avoid driving on Friday, January 10, 2025, to ensure their safety and to provide space for crews to work efficiently.
For more information on winter weather tips, travel updates, and TDOT’s winter weather supplies and equipment, visit the TDOT website through this link. Media outlets can access winter weather B-roll with courtesy to TDOT. Travelers can also stay informed about construction activity and traffic updates via the TDOT SmartWay Map or by calling 511 for statewide travel information.
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Nashville Implements Severe Weather Response Plan
Metro Social Services in Nashville has activated its Severe Weather Response Plan to protect vulnerable populations during the city’s coldest winter temperatures. The plan includes the delivery of emergency meals to homebound individuals and elevated welfare checks for seniors and disabled clients. The agency collaborates with the Office of Emergency Management as part of the city’s disaster response strategy. Metro Social Services will maintain regular business hours while ensuring readiness for severe weather conditions. For more information, visit the official website.
