Black Ice Is Main Concern For Morning Commute

WCCB Charlotte,

[gtxvideo vid=”qTJ6UAjC” playlist=”” pid=”Bbt3TRDe” thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/qTJ6UAjC.jpg” vtitle=”roads tuesday”]

CHARLOTTE, NC – Β The Charlotte Department of Transportation is focused on clearing secondary roads Tuesday night ahead of the morning commute.Β 

City of Charlotte officials are warning about the increased risk for the development of black ice in the overnight hours Tuesday.Β 

Residents are urged to delay their morning commute on Wednesday if possible and be aware of black ice accumulations.
Β 
The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s online travel management system is reporting that major interstates in Mecklenburg county are cleared, but there are still possible icy spots.
Β 
“I saw like five crashes,” said Kevin Gharavi, a South Charlotte resident.
Β 
Cars are still stranded on the side of major interstates and tow companies are in high demand.
Β 
“Keep our trucks ready to go and keep our guys ready to go. And we’re telling everybody to drive safe and be careful,” said Brad Taylor, with Atlantic Towing. Β 
Β 
CDOT responded to more than 100 calls for service Tuesday.
Β 
Charlotte Mecklenburg Police responded to 50 accidents between midnight Monday and Tuesday around 8pm.
Β 
NCDOT is operating 26 trucks and has brought in 50 contract tracks to help clear roads.Β So far, 1,800 tons of salt has been spread. Β 
Β 
“We have plans to continue clearing the roads until they’re clear,” said Jordan-Ashley Walker, with NCDOT. Β Β 
Β 
Walker says NCDOT crews are working 12-hour shifts around the clock and there are no plans to let up staffing.Β 
Β 
“We’re really concerned because there’s a cold front coming in where we’re going to have temperatures well below freezing, so we’re going to get as much work done now,” said Walker.