The first major snowstorm of the year was worrisome for early morning commuters on Thursday.
"Just getting used to this location and the amount of snow that comes down is what blew my mind," said Charles Wesley, who recently moved here from Kansas.
But Erie natives were relieved to find decent conditions, despite the overnight white out.
"I expected a lot more ice but it seems like the streets were salted pretty well," said commuter Tony Walden of Erie, "there wasn't a whole lot of slipping or anything so I think it was a pleasant surprise."
PennDOT crews stayed ahead of the storm, dispatching plows and salt trucks Wednesday afternoon, to make for a smoother ride Thursday morning.
"The prep work started yesterday," said PennDOT Assistant Manager Jesse Williams. "We wanted to make sure all the trucks were ready to go, everything was set material wise, and that salt brine was delivered."
Even though the roads may look pretty clear, people on their morning commute still took every precaution when they got behind the wheel.
"Put it in four wheel drive, and slow," said Levonne Rowan of Erie. "Leave early to make sure I get there on time."
"I am slowing down, checking my time and watching other people," Wesley laughed.
Williams advised, "Just maintain a safe speed of travel... keep a decent following distance."
Drivers knew it was only a matter of time before our typical Erie winter set in.
"We've been fortunate all winter so far without any snow, so I guess nobody can really complain about what we have going on right now," said Walden.
"I think it's good because it makes the winter short," said Rowen. "Gotta get it sooner or later so let's get it out of the way."
PennDOT has lifted a reduced speed limit for drivers along I-90 and I-79. They had issued the reduced speed yesterday, but drivers should still use good judgement when traveling those roads.
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