ARDOT: Ramps, expressways trouble areas during winter conditions
Jan 11, 2025
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Much of the Mid-South saw heavy snowfall Friday.
Now that some of the snow has melted, one of the biggest concerns is how people will be able to move about on the roads safely, especially with the threat of black ice.
"The ice is a different ball game," driver Erika Jones said.
Jones works on Missouri Street in West Memphis, Arkansas.
While many enjoyed the off day playing in the snow, she had to weather the storm and ice to attend work.
Winter storm passes through the Mid-South
"I don't stay far from here. So, I didn't have any trouble coming in," Jones said.
She described how it felt to drive on her way to work, with the potential to encounter black ice.
"It was pretty decent, I just drive slow and steady," Jones said.
And that's what those with the Arkansas Department of Transportation tell drivers to do when they get on the road during these winter conditions."
"Please pay special attention to bridges, overpasses, exit ramps, over ramps when you are getting in and off the highway," Dave Parker said. "I still have some trouble spots there."
Parker, who works for ARDOT said they have 75,000 cubic yards of salt and 600 trucks.
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"We are out today not only watching those areas but applying rock salt," Parker said. "We are continuing to plow. We're trying to push the snow even further away from the shoulders of the road. So, that way when it melts, that water doesn't simply come back across."
Jones said crews with ARDOT are doing their part to keep the roads safe.
Now, it’s up to other drivers to do theirs.
"So, I just pray and hope everybody drives safe," Jones said.
Most of the trouble areas for drivers will be ramps. So, make sure to take it slow through the weekend.