Ready or not, winter is here. For motorists that means seeing snow plows out on the roads keeping them safe for travel.
Each year it’s a challenge, according to transportation officials, who deal with staffing issues. There are millions of miles of roads to be cleared across Upstate New York as lake effect snow and winter weather impacts travel across Central New York and the Finger Lakes.
Whether it’s state, county, or local municipalities – making sure roads are clear is priority #1.
“You go into winter with the staff and you have not the staffing you want,” Marty Voss told CNYCentral. He’s with the Onondaga County Department of Transportation, who’s already had winter weather protocols activated this season. “We’re always looking for good people who want to drive a truck and who have a (commercial drivers license).”
Last year positive COVID cases and the coronavirus pandemic prompted staffing issues. Some local departments were left short-staffed for a majority of the winter season.
Transportation officials say the best thing motorists can do for them is remain cautious when weather turns snowy, and give snow plows plenty of space.
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