Ongoing staff shortages could make winter travel more challenging for Washington drivers this year.
Citing a shortage of workers, the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) warned drivers of reduced service on roadways this upcoming winter including longer closures, lower speed limits and less routine plowing.
Prior to the pandemic, WSDOT said that it filled 1,500 positions directly related to winter operations. This year that number is down to 1,200. The agency also reported losing 5.9% of its workforce after the state’s vaccine mandate went into effect last month.
“We can’t risk staff being injured or equipment being damaged by working crews beyond reasonable limits,” wrote WSDOT in a blog post
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