dump trucks transform into snowplows

BOISE, idaho (CBS2) — Today, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) finished up the last of their preparation for the weekend. This includes the conversion of the trucks they have used during the warmer months as dump trucks are turning into snowplows.

“Our preparation usually starts in October. We try to have as much ready to go by November first as fast as we can.”

Ada County Highway District (ACHD) is getting ready by running routes and pre-treating roads with magnesium chloride to help stop ice and snow from bonding to the road.

ITD has had 18 sheds in the area that are equipped with plows, salt, and workers determined to keep the road safe.

ACHD stays prepared by having backup stocks with supplies just in case of another snowmageddon.

“If we ever get into one of those multi-day events, we don’t want to be in a punch to have to get those materials transported to us in the middle of snowstorms.”

With miles of roads to cover, both of the agencies have priority systems to plow and treat the most important areas first.

“Our highest priority roads are the main arterials and collectors as well as roadways that are six percent or more areas in front of hospitals and those types of thingswe make sure that the school bus routes are cleared as well.”

So, if you are driving through some uncleared roads, the snowplows will be there as soon as they can. Dodd explained that the best way you can help snowplow drivers is to give yourself extra time to travel, drive courteously, and don’t pass them on the right side of the road.

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