CDOT preps for snowy roads

So far this winter, we're already getting a lot more snow than last year.

That’s good news for our drought situation and also for CDOT snowplow drivers who say this is their favorite time of year.

"This is where CDOT really shines,” highway maintenance supervisor, Kane Schneider, said. “This is where we get to go out and show our tax payers what we do."

CDOT workers are watching the weather forecasts, trying to be proactive as each winter storm approaches.

"We get guys out on shifts, make sure all the equipment is in order, and make sure all the guys are rested and we're ready for the storm," Schneider said.

The biggest job, and some say the most fun, is getting out and plowing the roads.

"Most of our forces are out in snowplows. We use some specialized equipment too," Schneider explained. "Here in this area we run about 43 employees and about 57 pieces of equipment."

In the twelve years that Kane Schneider has spent with CDOT, he's seen a lot of preventable accidents.

"A lot of accidents are caused by just driving too fast. If everyone would just give themselves enough time to get to where they're going, they can assure that they will arrive safely," Schneider said.

So as Schneider and the rest of his crew gear up for the next storm they're giving this warning.  Dangerous road conditions may exist with or without snow falling.

"There is still black ice. We’re out there to make the roads safe for you guys so let us do our job.”