(October 26, 2011) – As Old Man Winter huffs and puffs and gets ready to send wintery weather to the State, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is seeking help from commuters to provide real-time travel conditions during winter weather. SHA’s “Snow Squad” will consist of approximately 30 volunteers that will help SHA assess road conditions for winter 2011-2012.
“Keeping roads passable and safe during snow storms can be an uphill battle, especially while it is still snowing,” said Darrell B. Mobley, Maryland Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary and SHA’s Acting Administrator. “Good information about traffic and road conditions is critical. We rely on cameras and traffic sensors, but technology cannot replace a personal observation, so we are asking our customers to give us more eyes and ears on the road.”
The information received from the volunteers will assist operators at the Statewide Operations Center (SOC). Volunteers will report conditions witnessed during their normal driving routines such as snow or ice on roadways, traffic back ups, or even stranded motorists.
Reports called in by volunteers connect to a voice recognition system that complements SHA’s existing system of cameras and traffic monitoring systems at the SOC in Hanover. Participants will be trained by experienced SHA maintenance personnel.
Criteria for participation:
- Must be 21 years or older;
- A valid “Class C” Maryland Drivers License or valid Maryland Commercial Driver’s License with a minimum of five years experience;
- No points or moving violations within the past five years;
- Agree to follow all Maryland driving laws;
- Have up-to-date motor vehicle insurance;
- Vehicle must be in proper working order and prepared for winter driving; and
- Must sign a “Terms and Conditions” agreement with SHA.
The deadline for submitting applications is November 14.
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