If you do expect to leave Fremont this winter, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) urges everyone to plan and prepare for winter travel and winter driving.
WSDOT has a web page (click here) for tips and information for correct gear and ways you can get ready. “Our crews work hard to keep roads clear, but we also need the public’s help to keep traffic moving during winter weather,” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “Most pass closures are due to preventable spin outs or crashes with vehicles going too fast or not having proper winter equipment.”
Most importantly, WSDOT asks travelers to get the most up-to-date information about road conditions and trip planning. There are a few options:
- Download a WSDOT mobile app (click here)
- Sign-up for on-line travel alerts (click here)
- Pre-set your radio to 530 AM and/or 1610 AM for WSDOT traffic information
Of course, for those who use transit, METRO also asks riders to be prepared and ready for winter weather. METRO has an on-line Winter Snow Guide (click here) to provide information about using transit during winter storms. This page also has details about the Emergency Snow Network (ESN) and the 66 bus routes and ‘chained’ shuttles METRO will run if winter weather becomes too severe. The METRO website also has a sign-up for Travel Alerts, to give riders information about snow routes, and activation of the ESN.
Winter weather in our region is relatively mild, compared to what much of the Northern parts of the U.S. experience. However, when the weather does turn foul and frosty here, with the topography of hills and mountains, it can make travel particularly difficult. This year, be prepared and plan ahead to avoid dangerous situations – and to get where you want to be.