Austin weather: TxDOT treats roads ahead of winter weather

AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas Department of Transportation is working around the clock treating roadways as temperatures plummet in the Austin area.

The agency is also offering assistance at no cost to stranded drivers through its "HERO program."

"Our crews have been out there laying saltwater mixture, which is known as brine, and also a granular substance. That's a magnesium chloride," says TxDOT spokesperson Antonio Lujan. 

TxDOT says employees are placing the brine on major highways in Austin and in surrounding areas.

"This includes I-35, SH 71, U.S. 183, 290 East going towards Manor and then towards Dripping Springs. Some of those smaller rural roads may not have brine or that granular substance in them," says Lujan.

Temperatures reached below 40 degrees in Central Texas on Wednesday. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson addressed the public in a press conference on weather conditions and how the city is working to keep residents safe in their homes and on the streets.

"Keeping roads safe, keeping them as safe as possible, and continuing and continuing to deliver the critical services that our community depends on," said Mayor Watson.

TxDOT says this means staying off the roads.

"Just because they're drivable and treated does not mean passable. Because remember that depending on how low the temperatures do get, there might be some instances where you might have some ice accumulation," says Lujan.

In the case a driver needs assistance on the roadways, TxDOT’S HERO program does offer several services in the Austin area.

"If you are broken down on the side of the road, we can help you out by changing your tire, jump-starting your car, pushing you off the road, getting you some gas. Our emergency first responders cover for them so they can do their job," said a HERO PM Lead Operator.

"They're out there monitoring our roads as we speak. They're going to be out there working longer hours during the next couple of days to ensure that we are helping anyone who's out there stranded. And the good thing about hero is that it's at no cost," Lujan

TxDOT says they plan to work around the clock until weather conditions return to normal.

For the HERO program or assistance, you can dial 512-974-HERO.