I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience, support and understanding during this historical snowfall event in our area.  I realize you are also inundated with inquiries from residents as to subdivision streets.  Please know that we will continue working diligently to ensure that every cul-de-sac is made passable.

Let me assure you that we are giving roads that VDOT or its contractors were unable to reach during the initial storm last week our top priority.  We have made that clear in VDOT news releases as well as media interviews over the past couple of days.  The following quote appeared on the front page of yesterday’s Washington Post:   “We will give those roads first attention when this storm is over,�? said Joan Morris of the Virginia Department of Transportation .  As it turned out, our crews and contractors were able to continue working in subdivisions throughout yesterday’s blizzard. 

As you are aware, we’ve brought crews and additional heavy equipment from other parts of the state such as larger trucks and front loaders to make roads passable that have not yet received plowing services.  This equipment is more suitable for plowing subdivisions with this magnitude of snow.  In addition, once subdivisions are completed in other counties we will re-locate those resources as well.

Below is information as to what residents can expect:

·         Plows will make one or two trips to provide a path through neighborhood streets, but they will not clear to bare pavement, nor from curb- to - curb.

·         Because chemicals are not used in subdivisions, roads will remain snow packed and rutted after the plow has passed. Crews will put sand on hills, curves and intersections as needed to provide traction.

·         If planning to shovel their driveways, residents should try to refrain from clearing the last few feet at the curb until your street is plowed, as plows may push snow back into driveways. It also helps to shovel to the right as you face the road.

·         VDOT does not remove snow from sidewalks or trails.

·         VDOT plow drivers have assigned routes that include each and every state-maintained road in northern Virginia.

·         Call 911 if there is a medical emergency and they need to leave their home.

Again, please let constituents know that crews are diligently working to address all subdivision streets as quickly as possible. 

Sincerely,

Renée N. Hamilton

Assistant District Administrator, Arlington & Fairfax Counties