Snow zones implemented in Washington County

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, November 07, 2017

Snow zones, areas where vehicles are required to have traction devices during inclement weather, have been implemented on portions of three roads in Washington County with steep grades and high elevations.

• 175th Avenue, between Scholls Ferry and Rigert roads
• Barnes Road, from 118th Avenue east to the County line, adjacent to a city of Portland snow zone
• Cornell Road , from Cedar Hills Boulevard east to the County line.

Motorists traveling in snow zones during inclement weather will be required by law to have traction devices, such as studded tires, snow tires or tire chains, on or in vehicles. Traction devices can help reduce crashes in icy, snowy conditions. Snow zones have the potential to reduce the number of vehicles abandoned on shoulders and rights-of-way, which can also increase safety and allow for more efficient plowing and sanding.

The snow zones are marked with yellow signs. During winter months, the signs will read "carry chains or traction tires;" when restrictions are in effect, the message will change to "chains required."

Notifications will also be posted on www.wc-roads.com, the wc-roads Twitter and Facebook channels and the Washington County website.

Snow zone violations are a secondary offense, enforced when a driver has committed another offense, such as speeding, using a handheld device or driving dangerously. A snow zone citation usually carries a fine of $160.

For more information, visit www.snow-zones.com.

Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation is committed to planning, building and maintaining a great transportation system, ensuring the safety of all roadway users and operating the County roadway system in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.

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