FREDERICKSBURG – Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews continue to use heavy equipment to break apart ice packed down on low-volume secondary roads and subdivision streets in the Fredericksburg area and in the western areas of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. VDOT crews reached more residents on Wednesday, but work will continue this week to reach additional low-volume secondary and subdivision roads. Heavy equipment must first break apart a layer of ice that has formed over snow on roads. VDOT is using motor graders, loaders, and dump trucks to break the ice, with around 60 pieces of heavy equipment in Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Caroline counties, and around 17 pieces in the Middle Peninsula and 14 pieces in the Northern Neck. Once the ice is broken, more than 400 trucks are available to assist with pushing the broken-up ice and snow to the sides of the road. This helps to create at least a single lane that is 8-10 feet wide that is drivable with extreme caution. Trucks can also apply sand to provide traction for motorists. “We appreciate the public’s support by staying off the roads during the storm and their patience as our crews continue working nonstop in extremely cold weather to restore safe travel and connectivity for everyone,” said Joyce McGowan, VDOT Fredericksburg District Assistant District Administrator for Maintenance. VDOT crews will continue to work around the clock in emergency response until all state-maintained roads are safe for travel. Icy Road Conditions Possible Overnight Icy road conditions are possible again overnight and during the morning commute on Thursday, Jan. 29, with temperatures forecast to drop into the single digits. Road surfaces may be especially slick on bridges and overpasses and along ramps. Motorists should use caution and significantly reduce speed. Add distance between vehicles. | 
