​(November 10, 2022) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) hosted its annual “Snow Shows” event today at the Statewide Operations Center in Hanover and the Fairland Maintenance Facility in Silver Spring. MDOT SHA showcased its winter readiness by looking at equipment, supplies, the winter response budget, and the latest technology to help drivers make intelligent travel decisions during winter weather. 

“Winter weather will affect our travel and scheduled plans over the next several months,” said MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith. “Our team of dedicated operations staff are ready for this winter and willing to work 24/7 to help our customers arrive safely to their destination.  We are asking our customers to also prepare themselves and their vehicles for the winter travel ahead.”  

MDOT SHA is fully stocked with supplies and continues advancing state-of-the-art technology to monitor roadway conditions and deploy resources. MDOT SHA harnesses the latest cutting-edge technology, including more than 100 Mobile Advanced Road Weather Information Sensors (MARWIS). The MARWIS systems will complement approximately100 fixed infrared sensors on MDOT SHA weather stations across the state.  

These devices, located on maintenance vehicles, provide real-time, critical pavement and weather data that enables storm managers to make strategic decisions. The web-based Statewide Transportation Operations Resource Map (STORM) application​ keeps citizens informed about real-time snow removal efforts by integrating live traffic camera feeds and weather information for an improved customer interface. 

Other highlights include: 

• Budget for snow season is $76 million 
  
• 93 facilities across Maryland have 390,000 tons of rock salt at the ready 
• 77 sites have 1.7 million gallons of salt brine 
• Equipment fleet and personnel force of up to 2,700 (including contractors) 
• MDOT SHA winter fact sheets 

Maryland’s Move Over Law requires motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals. The expanded law is in place to protect emergency responders and all motorists who encounter a roadside emergency. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile device for roadside assistance. 

MDOT SHA reminds motorists to stay alert, focus on driving and look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slowdown in construction zones. For a look at real-time traffic conditions, go to md511.maryland.gov.​ Follow us on Twitter @MDSHA and Facebook @MDOTSHA.