Contact (Media Only): Erik Linden's cell (202) 438-7719,  Karyn LeBlanc's cell (202) 497-4572

(Washington, DC) Emeka Moneme, acting Director of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), this morning briefed reporters on the progress of the DDOT and Department of Public Works’ (DPW) snow operations.

Crews continue in a full deployment mode and will be plowing and treating major roadways, secondary roads and residential streets throughout the day. Crews will continue to work throughout the remainder of the night to treat roadways in anticipation of nighttime freezing temperatures. Full deployment includes approximately 150 trucks and 450 total personnel working on storm operations.

Moneme reminded drivers to take their time today and tomorrow. “As we’ve been saying for several days, drivers should take their time and use extreme caution tonight and tomorrow,” said Moneme. “We will do our part in treating roadways — and motorists need to do their part in driving carefully or taking public transportation instead of driving.”

City officials also reminded motorists to treat plow vehicles as emergency vehicles. Stay behind plow vehicles at least 25 feet and do not attempt to pass the vehicles.

Moneme also reminded residents and business owners of their responsibility to clear sidewalks. “We’ll take care of the roadways — while residents and businesses take care of the sidewalks,” said Moneme. “And please reach out to your elderly neighbors who may need help today and tonight.”

For a summary of sidewalk rules visit DDOT’s snow page.

DDOT and DPW remind commuters and residents to:

• Use Metro when possible;
• Drivers should use extreme caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles; 
• Remember even a 4-wheel drive SUV does not perform well in ice and additional safety measures should be followed; 
• Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice which can be deceptive in its appearance giving the driver a false sense of security on the road; and
• Remember to keep a safe distance from emergency and snow vehicles during any major winter weather event.