Transportation Cabinet
Clearing a Path Through Snow & Ice - KYTC Snowplows on the Roads

 FRANKFORT, KY (December 8, 2005) - Kentucky Transportation Cabinet road crews are out clearing a path through snow and ice.  The first winter storm of the season is entering the commonwealth.  Snowplows are already on the road in several western Kentucky counties where wintry precipitation started early this morning.

Snow and ice removal plans were put into place earlier this week in advance of the approaching winter storm.  Crews worked Tuesday and Wednesday to pre-treat major highways statewide.  The pre-treatment of "salt-brine" helps to melt snow and ice from the roadway.  The salt-water type treatment also combats snow and ice buildup on driving surfaces.  

The Transportation Cabinet has an arsenal of nearly 1,000 snowplows and more than 200 additional pieces of equipment to combat snow and ice.  In addition, the cabinet has more than 200 contractors who help to clear state highways during winter weather.  The state salt supply stands at 300,000 tons.  More than 27,000 road miles are maintained by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Maintenance crews in each county are prepared to work as long as it takes to ensure the roads are in the best condition possible during this winter event.  Condition reports on major routes are available by calling 511 or logging onto the 511 travel and traffic information website at 511.ky.gov.  Road conditions are described in the following manner:

Wet Pavement – The roadway is wet. Ice could form as temperatures drop.

Partly Covered – The roadway is partly covered with snow, slush or ice.  Markings may be obscured.

Mostly Covered – The roadway is mostly covered with snow, slush or ice. Roadway markers may be difficult to see because of packed snow and rutting conditions.

Completely Covered – The roadway is completely covered with snow, slush or ice and markings are obscured.

Impassable – Roadway conditions are not suitable for travel unless required by an emergency.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, through the 511 service strives to provide the most descriptive and up-to-date information for motorists so they know what to expect when they get out on the road.  Drivers are also reminded that bridges and overpasses are typically the most treacherous.  Motorists should use extreme caution when traveling during this winter weather event.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will provide local media with updated condition reports throughout the day and night.   

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