New Method Used For Treating Snow Covered Roads

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It was nearly one year ago we got the first of three blizzards that paralyzed the area.

Andrea Fujii reports in preparation for this year, the State Highway Administration says they're ready with some new techniques.

Nearly 100 inches of snow fell in the Baltimore metro area last winter.

"That's the most snow I've ever seen in my 16 years with State Highway," said Roy Harrell, snow plow driver.

The State Highway Administration says no one could have been prepared for the record amounts.

But this year as plow drivers practice, the administration says they're focusing on pre-treating the roads with even more salt and sugar beet molasses, which helps the salt stick.

It was tested in Frederick and Howard counties in 2009, and now it will be used statewide.

"When the plow drivers are out there it gives us a little added advantage before the snow starts," said Valerie Burnette Edgar, State Highway Administration.

They have 2,400 pieces of equipment and don't expect to acquire more. This year they've ordered more truck parts, though, so no snow plow has to wait to be repaired.

And if there's too much snow for the plows to handle, preparation will be the key to success.

"We do have mechanisms in place to bring in additional equipment. We have salt contracts already in place. A lot more preparation," said Burnette Edgar.

State highway is preparing for the worst, but they are hoping for a little less white.

Check out your commute in the snow, rain, or shine, click here.