State Crews to Tackle Roadside Grass

• VDOT press release

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) reminds drivers to slow down and watch for crews mowing grass, pruning trees, cutting brush and removing litter along roads throughout the commonwealth.

Most roads will see up to three cycles of mowing this year, but local VDOT maintenance crews may increase that frequency in locations where safety issues and weather patterns require. The roadside maintenance plan for 2011 remains similar to recent years, when repeated mowing was decreased in areas where sight distance and motorist safety were not issues.

VDOT maintenance crews and contractors work along roadsides and in medians to ensure safe sight distance for drivers and to properly care for and control vegetation within the right of way. Many of VDOT’s mowing operations are mobile, with tractors often followed by crash cushion trucks to provide protection from traffic. Signs are also posted to indicate that work is underway. Motorists are asked to watch for slow-moving mowing operations and to slow their speed, stay alert, and move into the opposite lane where possible when approaching the work zone. These courtesies allow VDOT crews space to work efficiently without worry for their safety or that of approaching motorists.

Crews will continue to address areas along all roads as needed where vegetation may limit the sight of drivers, cyclists or pedestrians. Residents are encouraged to report any roadside vegetation causing sight distance issues by filling out VDOT’s “report a road problem” page or by calling 800-367-7623 (800-FOR-ROAD).