Austin Prepares for Winter Weather with Road Crew Training

With winter officially beginning Saturday, December 21, the City of Austin is preparing its road crews to face the challenges of colder weather. On Thursday, the Street and Bridge Operations Division will perform winter preparedness training exercises based on lessons acquired from prior severe weather occurrences, such as Winter Storm Uri in 2021.

City authorities admit that climate change has increased the frequency of extreme weather in Austin, with hotter summers and colder winters becoming more regular. Richard Mendoza, director of Transportation and Public Works, stated that in previous years, Austin's icy conditions frequently thawed within 24 hours. "We now understand that's no longer the case," Mendoza added. Last year, the city purchased new deicing equipment to prepare roadways and prevent ice accumulation.

The training will include important skills like brine application, debris removal, and road clearance techniques. These initiatives are intended to secure safe passage for emergency personnel and civilians during severe winter storms.

Austin leaders stress the value of public cooperation. Staying off the roads during severe weather can assist crews preserve access and safety.

With improved equipment and enhanced training, Austin is better prepared to face whatever the winter has in store, ensuring that basic services and road safety remain community priorities.

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