As a winter storm approaches Houston, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) continues brine treatment on roads, despite some critics questioning its effectiveness, KPRC 2 reports. A TxDOT spokesperson said, “We’re on it. We’re prepared. We’ve been monitoring this system, at least for the last couple of weeks.”
John McClory, Interim Director of Pittsburgh Public Works, questioned the timing and effectiveness of TxDOT’s brine treatment, telling KPRC 2, “You can’t use brine when it’s raining, because it’s just going to wash it away.” TxDOT spokesperson Barbi Hall responded, “That’s why that operation has been continuing. It’s ongoing again. We started yesterday, we start again today, and we will continue up until the event actually hits us,” assuring that contingency plans are in place.
The City of Houston is taking precautions by securing critical infrastructure and opening warming centers. Mayor John Whitmire advised residents to stay off the roads from midnight Saturday through Monday morning due to ice buildup. “Ice buildup will create extremely dangerous driving conditions, and keeping roads clear is critical for first responders,” he said, according to KHOU 11 News.
Local institutions and services are adjusting to the storm. MD Anderson has canceled all outpatient appointments on Sunday and will open late on Monday. The Houston Municipal Courts and Houston Zoo announced closures, and METRO released adjusted service schedules. KHOU 11 News is providing live updates on closures and conditions to keep residents informed and safe.
