DOTD addresses winter weather priority routes
Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at 4:10:47 AM
BOSSIER CITY, La. - Officials from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development in Bossier City announce that its crews will be monitoring the roadways for snow and ice accumulation and will do everything possible to keep bridges along Louisiana’s major highways and interstate system open in the event of winter precipitation.

Crews must prioritize maintaining and, eventually, re-opening roadways based on traffic volumes. In northwest Louisiana, the following priority routes will be the first to be maintained and kept open where possible as a result of the predicted winter weather: I-20, I-49, LA 3132, US 71 (from LA 1 to the Arkansas state line), all bridges across the Red River, US 79, US 171, LA 1 (Youree to North Market) and US 84.

Any bridges that are unable to be maintained may become impassable.

For the most up-to-date and accurate road status information, DOTD advises motorists to use the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or via phone by dialing 511. Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).

As wintry conditions are forecast to last throughout the day. DOTD urges motorists to travel only when necessary. Motorists should use extreme caution when traveling on roadways during hazardous weather conditions and to stay off the roads and travel only if necessary. Additionally, motorists should expect congestion throughout the impacted areas due to icy conditions.

During winter weather conditions, motorists should drive using the following safety tips:
• Drive slowly and carefully.
• Avoid driving while distracted.
• Always allow for extra driving time.
• Reduce speeds when visibility is low.
• Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles.
• Watch for salt trucks, local and state responders, and other equipment on the road.

Also, be cautious of black ice--a thin, transparent layer of ice accumulation that can be visually hard to detect on bridges, overpasses, off-ramps and in shady spots. As always, DOTD reminds motorists to buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving.