Officials ask motorists to stay home and allow crews time and space to work

New Philadelphia, Ohio (Saturday, February 6, 2010)  – Many eastern Ohio roadways are snow covered and nearly impassable.  ODOT District 11 officials ask motorists to stay home and allow their plows room to work. 

ODOT District 11 Deputy Director Dick Bible said, "Snowfall rates have been as high as two inches per hour overnight, making it very difficult for our crews.  Every available plow is on the road and is working tirelessly to make them passable."

Many counties have declared Level Three Emergencies, which means all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel.  No one else should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or a personal emergency exists.  Please consult the local county sheriff’s offices for the current level in your area.

About 12 to 14 inches of snow has fallen so far in most eastern Ohio counties, and there are trees down in some locations also impacting travel.   Bible advises, "If travel cannot be avoided, remember, Ice and snow, take it slow and KNO B4 U GO, by checking the most up-to-date road conditions at www.buckeyetraffic.org."

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For more information contact: 


Becky Giauque \Jee-awg\, Public Information Officer, at (330) 308-3949 or email D11.PIO@dot.state.oh.us

 ODOT District 11 serves Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson and Tuscarawas counties.