Routes and Priorities
| Priority Level | Route Description and Maintenance Goal |
|---|---|
| First Priority | Major Thoroughfares: Roads of major importance and high traffic volume, including all Interstates, Expressways, and major routes connecting urban areas. These are plowed and treated first and receive ongoing maintenance throughout winter events. |
| Second Priority | Secondary Connections: Routes of slightly less traffic volume, primarily consisting of school bus routes not included in the First Priority. These are addressed as conditions permit once major routes are passable. |
| Third Priority | Local Roads: Lower traffic volume roads that receive attention only after all Second Priority routes have been cleared and treated. |
| Fourth Priority | Park and Forest Roads: As of the 2025-2026 season, WVDOH has formally integrated a fourth priority level specifically for park and forest routes, addressed after all higher-priority systems are secure. |
Note: During active snowfall, crews may be required to return to First Priority routes to ensure they remain open for emergency services and major commerce, which may delay the clearing of secondary and local roads.
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