| MEDIA CONTACT (ONLY): |
John Lisle, (202) 486-5838 |
|
Linda Grant, (202) 497-1080 |
The District has weathered its second winter event in as many days; now the concern is that the city’s wet roads could ice up overnight if left untreated. Temperatures are expected to dip into the teens tonight with 20-35 mph wind gusts possibly bringing temperatures to near zero. As a result, a full deployment of snow crews will remain on duty through the night and into Tuesday to ensure road conditions do not deteriorate.
“I am extremely pleased with the job our crews have done so far,” said Mayor Adrian Fenty, “But our work is not done yet. We need to keep going until all of this snow is gone and the roads are completely dry again.”
Motorists and pedestrians are cautioned to proceed carefully and be aware of icy conditions including possible patches of black ice. In addition, motorists are reminded that rush hour no parking restrictions are enforceable, according to posted signs. Vehicles that are parked illegally on major roadways will be ticketed and towed
Residents and businesses are strongly urged to clear the sidewalks in front of their property as soon as possible. If left untouched, sidewalks could ice over and become much more difficult to clear. Residents are also asked to assist disabled or elderly neighbors and clear their steps and walkways. Please do not put snow in the street.
The snow has affected trash and recycling collections, especially those made from alleys. “We are making every effort to collect this week’s trash and recycling this week; however, the weather is influencing our success,” said Department of Public Works Director William O. Howland, Jr. Trucks are slipping in the alleys, which can lead to injuries and property damage, so some collections might be missed.
The District’s Snow Team has been treating and plowing city streets since Sunday afternoon. More than 200 pieces of equipment were deployed including heavy and light plows and sprayer trucks. The Snow Team (the Department of Public Works and Department of Transportation) is responsible for 2,950 lane miles of roadway and 241 bridges including 69 primary and secondary routes, 82 residential routes and 75 miles of major roadways and Interstate Highways (part of the National Highway System).