MINISTRY OF HIGHWAYS AND INFRASTRUCTURE READY FOR SPRING STORM

Highways and Infrastructure crews are ready for a potential spring snow storm, predicted to hit the province over the weekend. Motorists are advised to check road conditions before travelling via the internet at www.highways.gov.sk.ca or toll-free at 1-888-335-7623. Road conditions are updated a minimum of three times a day and as conditions warrant.

"At this time of year, when we are thinking more about golf and yard work than blizzards it is especially important to remember that a forecasted storm of this magnitude will bring hazardous winter driving conditions," Highways and Infrastructure Minister Wayne Elhard said. "Motorists are reminded to drive according to weather and road conditions, watch for snow removal equipment and check road conditions before travelling."

Elhard noted that the Ministry has 290 plow trucks stationed at 85 locations across the province. Operators are available and equipment is being mobilized. The Ministry is also taking steps to ensure the Highway Hotline is staffed and operating 24 hours a day. If and when the storm hits, the Ministry will use its priority system for clearing roads as follows:

• Level 1 - Snow and ice removal occurs within six hours of the end of the storm on highways that serve as commuter routes, major inter-provincial and international travel routes, connect communities with a population of 3,000 or more and have an average annual daily traffic (AADT) count of 1,500 or more vehicles.
• Level 2 - Snow and ice removal occurs within 12 hours on highways with an AADT between 300 and 1,500. Additional time may be required in extreme circumstances.
• Level 3 - Snow and ice removal occurs on all other highways with an AADT less than 300 as soon as possible or within 24 hours, without jeopardizing service to Level 1 or 2 highways.

Elhard also cautioned motorists to exercise caution during the storm.

"Safety on the 26,000 km provincial highway system is our top priority," Elhard said. "We recognize that there is a potential for snow storms at this time of year and we can transition from spring maintenance to winter maintenance operations quickly and seamlessly."

More information on the Ministry's plan for snow and ice removal is also available on the web site.

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For more information, contact:

Doug Wakabayashi
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4804
Email: dwakabayashi@highways.gov.sk.ca