With Potential Snow Storm On The Way, Track Plow Progress

With a major snow storm potentially on the way this weekend, it’s important to be up to date on snow-day procedures.

In preparation for the coming winter storm season, PennDOT has introduced a new app that allows residents to monitor where hundreds of the state’s plow trucks are during winter weather.

While nothing is certain, there is a possibility of up to six inches of snow or more this weekend.

Read more here: Details Released on Possible Weekend Snowstorm in Pa.

To see how roads in your area are faring, PennDOT has now outfitted more than 700 plow trucks with Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) technology.

Users of the 511 PA app will be able track more than 500 PennDOT plow trucks and more than 200 contracted rental trucks servicing interstates and expressways across the state.

According to officials, the new technology will also help improve PennDOT’s real-time information on vehicle movement, plow-route coverage and usage of materials such as salt and anti-skid.

Now you’ll know before you hit the road if your route is clear.

There’s a cost benefit, too, according to PennDOT officials. “This particular program has a projected cost savings of $1.4 million over the next four to six years, based on a combination of reduced salt usage and better use of department equipment,” according to information from Gov. Wolf’s office.

For more information on winter operations and how to prepare for the season, visit PennDOT.gov/winter.