INDOT Prepares for Winter Weather at Frankfort Subdistrict

Annual snow and ice inspections prepare plows for winter's worst

FRANKFORT, IN - At a time when most Hoosiers try to put thoughts of winter weather out of their minds,  Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) crews are preparing for the possibility of snow and ice storms. 

INDOT inspectors will travel to INDOT's Frankfort Subdistrict on Tuesday, October 14 at 9:00 a.m. to perform an annual inspection of subdistrict snow and ice equipment.  The Frankfort Subdistrict maintains the state roads in Clinton, Boone and Tippecanoe counties.  It has 32 snow trucks that can be dispatched 24 hours a day to pre-treat roads, lay down salt compounds and plow snow.  Similar inspections are taking place this month at INDOT offices across the state.

During the inspections, INDOT equipment experts will have full bumper-to-bumper access to the large trucks.  They will be checking for mechanical defects such as steering, engine and brake problems.  Any problems identified during the inspection will be repaired by INDOT mechanics.  By using preventative measures such as snow and ice inspections, INDOT is able to prepare for winter, long before it arrives in the Hoosier State.  The inspections result in improved winter safety for both INDOT drivers and Indiana motorists.

During the winter season, INDOT's focus is preventing snow and ice before it accumulates on roadways.  When storms threaten, INDOT officials in Frankfort and other subdistrict offices will continuously monitor weather conditions and forecasts.  INDOT will also use Roadway Weather Information Systems, which monitor ground and pavement temperatures.  These devices help INDOT focus on the portions of roadway where crews are most needed to address road conditions before they deteriorate.

This year, INDOT will rely heavily on the use of salt brine to pre-treat the road when the threat of freezing rain, sleet and ice looms.  Unlike traditional salt granules, the salt and water solution can be applied before a storm hits and will not be swept aside by traffic.  INDOT will use salt brine on many heavily traveled state roads and all interstate highways this winter. 

Source: Indiana Department of Transportation