Watch: Getting ready for the snow in central Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indianapolis Department of Public Works crews enjoyed perfect pothole-patching weather Friday afternoon, before a winter storm was forecast to roll into the city late Friday night.

Warren Stokes, spokesperson for DPW, says a crew of 76 snow plows were preparing to head out onto Indianapolis roads at 11 p.m. Friday. He said those crews would be relieved at 11 a.m. Saturday morning by another team of 76 drivers.

“The roads we focus on are the major thoroughfares,” said Stokes. “It’s going to be a weekend so folks will be using those roads to get to and from places, so we want to make sure those are safe and passable as possible. We’ll move to the secondary streets right after.”

Stokes explained of the 8,000 lane miles of roads in Indianapolis, DPW prioritizes 4,000 main road miles. Main thoroughfares include Michigan Avenue, Meridian Street, Central Avenue, and Georgetown Road, according to Stokes.

Rain may fall before the snow Friday evening, so Stokes said crews would not be laying down salt ahead of time in case the rain washes it away. He said slick spots are still possible, however.

“We know there’s a chance for slick spots so we’re going to really pay attention to those bridges and overpasses where those slick spots form,” said Stokes.

DPW recommends you check their Indy Snow Force Viewer Friday evening after 11 p.m.. It displays a map of Indy with markings where snowplows have recently cleared streets.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department reminded people to keep blankets and flashlights in their cars and make sure smartphones are charged.

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