Though we haven't had to deal with much snow yet, the winter is only just getting started. The New York State Department of Transportation says this time around crews will be able to make roads safer by removing snow faster than ever before. Time Warner Cable News reporter Angela Christoforos explains how.
IRVING, N.Y. -- New York Department of Transportation officials say state-of-the-art tow plows will help workers remove snow quicker and more efficiently this winter.
"The tow plows can be adjusted to swing out to the side of the truck doubling the plow width and giving the operator the ability to simultaneously clear two travel lanes at once," said Darrell Kaninski, N.Y. D.O.T regional director.
The tow plows are attached to plow trucks, and are able to swing into the second lane as the operator is driving. Sixty-two of the plows will be deployed throughout the state: two are going to southern Erie County, two to Cattaraugus County, and two to Chautauqua County.
"The tow plows will specifically be used on expressways including Route 219, Route 400 and I-86," said Kaninski.
Earlier this year, the Governor Cuomo's New York Responds Initiative allocated $50 million for new winter storm equipment and created a new approach to emergency preparedness.
New York DOT officials say the tow plows are a part of that plan and investment.
"The 12-foot tow plow used in combination with the 12-foot front plow helps clear 24 feet of road. These snow plows are going to make plowing more efficient and economical and helping to clear roadways faster and using less staff and equipment to do it," said Kaninski.
The tow plows are equipped with two cameras to assist operators and reduce blind spots. When on the road, drivers will not be able to pass the tow plow, and the officials say it's safer for motorists to stay behind.