Missouri Transportation Workers Test Response with Simulated Winter Storm
State transportation officials drill employees on response procedure for icy, snowy conditions.
Thanks to the Missouri Department of Transportation, drivers will now be prepared the minute a winter storm hits. Highways crews across the state are testing equipment and procedure with simulated winter storms to make ready for the upcoming snowy months.
In various districts, workers tested the procedure but doing a drill of how a winter storm would be handled.
These test runs are important since the state had a mild winter last year. Thus, some drivers may be inexperienced or rusty. Inexperienced drivers are teamed with ones who have experience facing snowy challenges.
The department was reduced by 1,200 positions last year, along with other budget cuts. Overall, the state is projected to save $512 million during the first five years following these cuts. On average, each winter, Missouri spends $42 million maintaining safe travel conditions.