VDOT News - Culpeper

CULPEPER — Even as crews work to shape up secondary roads across central Virginia, temperatures in the teens overnight have added icy patches to the hazards present during the Monday morning commute.

Currently, Interstate 66 and primary highways in Albemarle, Rappahannock and northern Fauquier counties are reported in minor condition, with some lingering snow and ice on the roadway. The majority of secondary roads are snow-covered, with those Orange and Rappahannock counties still partially blocked by large snow drifts.

All other roads are reported clear; however, those who must travel this morning should be alert for isolated ice, especially in shaded spots and on bridges, overpasses and ramps. Roads with low traffic volumes also freeze easily.

Drivers should be alert for pedestrians walking on the road, especially in more urban areas where sidewalks may be blocked with large piles of snow. You may also encounter limited sight distance and obstructed views at intersections and entrances due to the high piles of snow on the shoulders and medians.

What residents should know

• Plows will provide a path through neighborhoods that is drivable with caution for an average passenger vehicle. The path will not be curb-to-curb or bare pavement, and may remain uneven and rutted, especially with refreezing overnight.
• Chemicals are not typically used in subdivisions, but crews will sand hills, curves and intersections as needed to provide traction.
• In many neighborhoods, front-end loaders and motor graders will be required to move snow where there is not enough room to push.
• Crews are asked to be mindful of pushing large piles onto driveways, but in an extreme storm that can be an unintended consequence of making roads passable.
• To give crews a chance to finish their plow assignments, VDOT asks that residents wait 48 hours after the storm is over before reporting “missed” roads.

Use VDOT’s free 511 tools to monitor road conditions and live traffic camera feeds. Additional information about winter-weather preparations and response can be found at www.virginiadot.org/travel/snow.asp.

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