SHA held annual ‘Snow Show’
Hanover, Md. (DG) – The first day of winter isn’t until December 21st but the Maryland State Highway Administration is getting ready for the first snowflakes.
SHA held their ‘Annual Snow Show’ Wednesday in Hanover. Spokesman Charlie Gischlar said this year they are using some new technology, infrared pavement sensors. These sensors will determine the type of precipitation, surface temperature, and air temperature.
“That helps us, that’s a key component in helping us, particularly after a snow storm is done and we go out and patrol for snow and icy spots,” Gischlar said.
The senors are not placed into the roadway.
“The smarter road technology helps MDOT SHA make smarter decisions, saving $11.7 million last season,” said MDOT SHA Administrator Gregory Slater. Additionally, this year MDOT SHA will use the data to better inform drivers real-time by automatically posting pavement conditions to overhead digital message boards.
MDOTs advice is to take it slow on ice and snow and do not pass snow plows or plow trains. The unplowed roads are ahead of the plows and the treated roads are behind them.
-Dianah Gibson