By 1808Delaware
As Ohioans soak up the last of autumn, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is already gearing up for the challenges of winter. Snow plows, salt supplies, and a dedicated team of drivers are set for another season of keeping Ohio’s roads safe and passable. From topping off salt reserves to performing equipment checks, ODOT’s preparations reflect the importance of a reliable transportation network in the state’s economy and public safety.
Preparing Plows and People for Snow Season
With the possibility of snow arriving as early as November in northern Ohio, ODOT has been conducting rigorous safety checks on snowplows and other equipment. The agency is also in the process of hiring seasonal drivers to join its team of nearly 3,000 dedicated personnel who maintain more than 43,000 lane miles across the state, including major U.S. routes and interstates (excluding the Ohio Turnpike). Alongside full-time drivers, ODOT enlists auxiliary drivers—staff who step into plow-driving roles only when needed during severe snow events.
“Ohio’s transportation network is critical to keeping our state moving, especially during unpredictable winter storms,” remarked Governor Mike DeWine. “Safe and passable roads ensure that businesses can continue operating, emergency services can reach those in need, and residents can travel to work and school without disruption.”
Intensive Safety Checks and Seasonal Staffing
ODOT’s winter preparations include 150-point inspections on each of its nearly 1,700 snow plow trucks. These inspections—covering essential parts from the plow blade to the salt spinner—are conducted by around 250 mechanics who work to ensure that any necessary repairs are completed before snow hits. ODOT also holds a vast stockpile of road treatment materials, with more than 800,000 tons of salt on hand. Last winter alone, crews used nearly 372,000 tons of salt and 10.3 million gallons of liquid deicers to keep Ohio’s roads safe.
ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn emphasized the pride that ODOT’s drivers take in their work: “These safety checks are important to ensure crews are well trained, equipment is road-ready, and deicing materials are stocked. ODOT plow drivers take great pride and responsibility in keeping roads safe, and communities connected during the winter months.”
Maintaining High Standards for Road Clearing
ODOT’s commitment to efficient snow removal has set a high standard. Their goal is to have primary routes back up to speed within 2 hours and secondary routes within 4 hours after a snow event concludes—a target they successfully met 98.3% of the time last winter. However, winter driving safety is not solely in the hands of ODOT’s crews. Motorists play a key role by adjusting their driving to match conditions and giving plows ample room to operate.
Keeping Plows on the Road: Safety for Crews and Drivers
Collisions with snow plows, while reduced from previous years, remain a concern. Last winter, 22 plow trucks were struck on Ohio’s roads. Such incidents not only pose a risk to ODOT crews but also take essential equipment out of commission, forcing nearby plows to extend their routes. For motorists, the message is clear: when encountering snow plows, maintaining a safe distance allows ODOT crews to do their jobs effectively and keeps everyone safer on icy, snowy roads.
Ready for the Long Haul
ODOT’s seasonal preparations underscore its commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient transportation network throughout the state, even during winter’s toughest storms. As snow and ice become part of Ohio’s forecast, ODOT is primed to keep residents moving, businesses running, and communities connected.
Source: ODOT
