TxDOT takes steps to lower virus risk
On Friday and over the weekend, the Texas Department of Transportation took several steps to protect the public and its employees.
TxDOT remains committed to delivering services to its customers all over the state, according to a news release from the agency.
Given the recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to cancel gatherings of 50 or more people and the request from President Donald Trump to avoid gatherings larger than 10 people, TxDOT is postponing or canceling its in-person public hearings and gatherings through April 3. That date is subject to change. This excludes the Texas Transportation Commission meeting on March 26, which will be addressed separately. When possible, TxDOT will look to offer virtual-participation strategies for public input.
Work on projects to operate, maintain and improve our transportation system continues, including ferry operations, according to the news release.
TxDOT has closed the lobbies of its 12 Travel Information Centers until further notice to help combat the threat of COVID-19. Outside restrooms will remain available at all times and will be regularly cleaned between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The safety rest areas on highways throughout the state remain open.
Travelers can also still speak with center counselors about road conditions or travel information between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Anyone can call 1-800-452-9292 or visit drivetexas.org to obtain road-condition information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
On Saturday, TxDOT began sharing safety messages on its digital highway signs throughout the state. These messages include, “Give Xtra Space, With Each Other, And On The Road” and “Hands Clean, 2 Beat Covid-19, Be on TX Team.” These are short, easy-to-read messages to help reinforce the importance of preventing the spread of the virus.
In conjunction with Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s disaster declaration related to COVID-19, as of Monday TxDOT is also requiring its officebased employees to telework.
Visit the COVID-19 website of the Texas Department of State Health Services at https://www.dshs.texas. gov/coronavirus/ for the most up-todate information and guidance from state health officials.