With winter weather predicted for tomorrow, MTA wants to assure the public that the Turnpike will continue to be maintained at the high standard toll payers expect, despite loss of equipment earlier this week.
On Sunday night, a fire destroyed a garage at MTA’s Auburn maintenance facility. Fortunately, no one was injured. Four plow trucks, a traffic control truck, several other vehicles, and miscellaneous equipment were destroyed in the fire. The official cause is under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Even though the fire that destroyed half of the Auburn maintenance camp’s plow truck fleet, MTA mobilized spare plows and had them on-site in Auburn by 9 p.m. Sunday, ensuring the roads remained clear and safe for travelers. As always, MTA crews were out plowing the Pike as soon as the snow started to fall.
“Our crews are resilient and dedicated to keeping the road safe for travelers. It’s been a hectic week, but we are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way,” said Maintenance Foreman Nicole Chase.
MTA would like to thank the fire crews from Auburn and eight other municipalities who responded to the fire. Tanker trucks were needed to haul in water, and firefighters did an outstanding job preventing the flames from spreading to other buildings at the maintenance camp.
MTA crews urge you to drive safely during tomorrow’s winter weather. Please give plows plenty of room, follow posted speed limits, and stay focused by putting away any distractions.
