May 20, 2014 – For immediate release
Mowing Underway on Central Missouri Roadsides
JEFFERSON CITY – Missouri Department of Transportation maintenance crews have begun the annual process of mowing central Missouri roadsides.
“We mow the roadsides of state highways at intersections and along the roadway shoulders in central Missouri to provide good visibility for motorists,” said MoDOT Central District Maintenance Engineer Randy Aulbur. “Here in mid-Missouri we manage roadsides across an 18 county region and although we can’t mow them as often as you would mow your lawn, we are focused on keeping visibility a top priority for improved safety.”
Motorists are asked to be on the lookout for mowers and remember the following tips when approaching mowing operations:
· Be alert for slow-moving trucks and tractors with lights flashing (2 mph to 5 mph).
· Slow down and focus on the road ahead of you. If possible, move over a lane and give crews room to work.
· Avoid talking or texting on a cell phone and using other distractions.
· Be prepared to stop or drive very slowly behind a “follow” truck, especially approaching a hill or curve on a two-lane road.
· Pass when you can see far enough past the “follow” truck to avoid meeting oncoming traffic.
· Pass the tractor when it is safe.
In most areas, mowing tractors will make one pass, making cuts up to 15 feet wide, depending on terrain and obstructions. Herbicides will also be used to stunt grass growth, as well as to control brush and stop the spread of noxious weeds.
Major and minor routes will be mowed three times through the end of October. MoDOT encourages residents to report grass and weeds that block visibility at intersections along state roads. Workers will respond and cut away the visual obstruction.
For more information, call MoDOT toll-free at 1-888-275-6636 or visit www.modot.org/central.
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