Austin roads remain 'in dangerous condition' as city crews work to clear ice, debris

The city of Austin Public Works Department is continuing to clear city roadways after having spent the last several days clearing streets around area hospitals and warming centers.

According to a Feb. 18 news release from Austin Public Works, city crews are now focusing work on clearing streets and sidewalks from ice, snow and downed tree limbs.

“Given the dangerous road conditions, our priority throughout this event has been to support our emergency services providers so they can safely access people who needed help,” Public Works Director Richard Mendoza said in the Feb. 18 news release. “We are clearing as many priority routes throughout the city, and will be working around the clock to make sure as many streets as possible are addressed.”

The city has hired contractors to help clear streets, the city’s news release states, and crews currently have more than 1,500 tons of sanding material to distribute throughout the city. Crews have cleared or inspected more than 117 miles of roadway in the city of Austin.

Runways and other operational areas at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport were cleared Feb. 17, according to Public Works.

Austin’s 311 service continues to field reports on downed limbs over power lines and streets. Residents can report any obstructions by calling 311 or filing a report on the city’s website.

Because of continued precipitation and below-freezing temperatures, many roadways across Austin “remain in dangerous condition,” according to the news release. Public Works advises residents travel before sundown and only on heavily traveled roadways.

Drivers are also cautioned to stay off overpasses, which freeze quickly and are frequently treated by crews. According to the city’s news release, Public Works has treated 26 bridges multiple times throughout the week.