Traveling Major Issue for Many

As you know, winter weather has hit our area, and traveling was a major issue for many.      

Mike Holden braved the storm earlier. He talked to PennDOT officials and drivers. He has our story.

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As the high winds, chilly temps and snow came down in Erie County, everyone agreed on one thing.

Marion Sanders said: "Stay off roads."

Richard Krasinski said: "Stay home, because it's bad, real bad."

David Weschler, Empire Snow Management, said: "Stay home. Go home. The roads are terrible everywhere. It's snowing so bad I can't keep up."

            The snowfall began at noon on Wednesday and continued into the evening hours, causing drivers to slow down or risk spinning out.

Kayla said: "Slow down. Take your time. Don't be in a rush. Just every thing's bad. Don't get mad at each other and slow down."

            Local plowing business and PennDOT crews kept busy and hit up routes across the county as quickly as possible. PennDOT even beefed up its staff.

Darrell Chapman, PennDOT Asst. Co. Manager said: "We put out the full B shift and brought extra people out. Now we're carrying people over."

Mike Holden said: "And PennDOT officials are working around the clock and using a salt and brine mix to combat these slippery roadways."

Darrell said: "We're trying to keep the roads clear by applying a salt mix to the snow and using the brine mix to help activate quicker."

            PennDOT officials say they are used to conditions like this.

            With 40 trucks on the road and 21,000 tons of salt on hand, they're ready, but they urge you to take caution.

Darrell said: "If you need to get out, expect the unexpected. We're out covering 38 routes."

            And for David Weschler, a 13 year snow plowing veteran at Empire Snow Management? He offers these wise words: "Wait it out. It'll be over soon."