TxDOT says 400 crew members will assist with 24-hour operations throughout the winter event to treat and monitor roads.
SAN ANTONIO — Brine is a mixture of salt, water and sodium chloride. It helps prevent ice from building up on roads. At one TxDOT facility they anticipate using about 30,000 gallons a day.
Spokesperson for the Texas Department of Transportation – Laura Lopez says treating roads now – like overpasses, bridges and elevated lanes along 410, 1604, I-35, and I-10 headed toward the Hill Country are top priorities.
“About 400 people that are involved in this operation,” Lopez said. “And of course we do cover 12 counties. Bexar County being one of the big ones. The Hill Country, Kerrville, Boerne, even New Braunfels.”
Her advice when it comes to seeing the work trucks treating the road – keep your distance.
“When the temperatures start to begin to drop and that chance of precipitation increases, we have some protection already on the roadway,” she said. “We will be having our trucks along with a truck behind them, so drivers don’t cut in between and get sprayed.”
Wet, icy roads reduce traction between a car’s tires and the road surface – increasing the chance of your car skidding. TxDOT stresses to be careful if you have to be out on the road.
“There’s still a potential for ice forming on the highway.”
TXDOT advises going to drivetexas.org for the latest on road conditions.