ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Alaska Department of Transportation officials say they are better prepared compared to last season as southcentral Alaska deals with the first major snowstorm of the season.

“We are in a much better position than we were last winter in terms of both equipment and manpower,” said Justin Shelby, DOT administrative operations manager. “The first snowfalls of the season are always the slipperiest. That is the main concern here, especially as there are still many drivers who may not have fitted their winter tires yet.”

While staffing challenges are always an issue, Shelby said having three fewer operators out of 39 is a “good average” considering where the department typically is this time of year.

Shelby also highlighted which state highways the department is primarily responsible for and which roads the Anchorage city government is responsible for.

The state website provides detailed maps depicting DOT's snow removal radius Anchorage Road Maintenance Website Provides detailed maps of not only DOT areas, but also road and sidewalk status and community areas.

“(In Anchorage) we focus on the highways first and then move on to other major roads like Dimond and Dowling, etc.,” Shelby said. “We're doing our best to get out there and sand down intersections, but with it constantly snowing, the condition will change throughout the day, so drive slower, take your time, be aware of other drivers, pedestrians, etc. when you're out and about “Please make sure to give our operators enough space to work.”

Copyright 2024 KTUU. All rights reserved.