ODOT Asks Drivers To Prepare For Winter Conditions – KXL

Portland, Ore. – Oregon’s Department of Transportation continues its hiring blitz around the state in preparation for winter weather, but officials hope to have enough staff before the snow flies.

“We’re currently hiring as fast and quickly as possible to prepare. But you may not see the level of service you’ve come to expect from us in years past,” says ODOT Region One Manager Rian Windsheimer. ODOT’s David House says the goal is to at least meet the same service level as last year, “Last winter was a little lower level of service than historically we’ve had. But we think we can get to that point.”

Seasonal hiring was delayed until after the legislature passed a funding package for ODOT just over a month ago. Windsheimer says his Portland-area region still has dozens of openings, “In Region One, we have more than 35 vacant positions in Maintenance and Operations and our newly hired folks are going to require some training before they can plow snow, which is scheduled to occur in December.” He adds, “It means you’re more likely to see chain requirements and road closures. Some roads and passes may be closed longer than normal and after significant storms. There also may be slower responses to crashes and other emergencies, and it may take longer to clear major crashes.” Drivers are urged to plan ahead, carry chains and expect your trip during winter weather will take longer than normal. 

House says mountain passes are fully staffed, but lower elevation highways could be another story during a storm, “There are times when we will recommend you stay off the roads for that amount of time. Reschedule your trip because it’s going to be either impossible or a lot more trouble than it’s worth.”

Real-time highway conditions are available at Tripcheck.com.