Ahead of expected winter weather this weekend, transportation agencies across the Houston area have begun pre-treating major roadways to reduce ice buildup and improve safety.
Houston Public Works started pre-treating 41 priority locations on Friday, concentrating on bridges, ramps, and flyovers considered critical for emergency access.
Public Works Director Randy Macchi said crews are taking a targeted approach rather than treating every roadway.
“When folks wonder, ‘What are you doing to treat the streets?’ the reality is we are being very selective in what we treat,” Macchi said. “We’re making sure critical areas are addressed so first responders can reach where they need to go and access to hospitals and other essential facilities remains available.”
The Texas Department of Transportation also began pre-treatment efforts Thursday across the Houston region. According to department officials, work is underway on major thoroughfares including Interstate 10, Interstate 45, and Loop 610.
TxDOT officials said pre-treatment is expected to be completed Friday, with crews continuing to monitor conditions and reapply materials if necessary.
Transportation officials continue to urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel during freezing conditions.
“We always want to advise people to stay off the roads and don’t go out unless absolutely necessary,” said Leo Flores, a public information officer with TxDOT. He added that crews are actively applying brine along tier-one and tier-two roadways, focusing on overpasses and bridges that are more prone to icing.
Weather forecasts call for rain Friday night and Saturday, which could reduce the effectiveness of some pre-treatment before sub-freezing temperatures arrive late Saturday or early Sunday.
The Harris County Toll Road Authority has also started treating roads and bridges and plans to continue those efforts throughout the freeze.
HCTRA spokesperson Tracy Jackson said public safety teams and maintenance crews will patrol toll roads for hazardous conditions. Any roadway deemed unsafe will be closed until conditions improve.
TxDOT crews are primarily using brine, a mixture of salt and water, to prevent ice from bonding to pavement. County officials throughout the Houston area said coordination with state transportation crews is ongoing as the region prepares for freezing temperatures.
