ST. JOHN’S, NL - A pilot project will study the safety and effectiveness of using tow plows on provincial highways this winter.
A new tow plow, the first of its kind for Newfoundland and Labrador, was unveiled by Transportation and Works Minister Steve Crocker today, Nov. 21.
It will be deployed out of the department’s Foxtrap depot and be assigned to clear snow from the Trans-Canada Highway between Route 2 and Salmonier Line this winter.
A tow plow is towed behind a traditional snow plow. The rear blade allows for snow to be cleared from the left lane and right lane at the same time.
Signs on the rear of the equipment will alert motorists when the rear blade will move to the right or back behind the truck.
The department will review the pilot project after the season to determine if more tow plows will be used in the future.
“Snow plows on highways with multiple lanes often clear one lane at a time or work in tandem with another plow so both lanes can be cleared together,” Crocker said in a news release.
“The addition of the tow plow will enable crews to clear snow more effectively on our highways and make them safer for residents.”
