Blizzard to be costly for Oklahoma Transportation Department

Snow removal has been exhausting for state road crews, many of whom spent several days working alternating 12-hour shifts, said Gary Evans, deputy director and chief engineer.

They are prepared to do it all again this week if another major snowstorm rolls in as expected, he said.

“We are restocked with materials and ready to attack the next storm,” Evans said. “Luckily, we have had a couple of days of sunshine ... that has allowed us to catch our breath, get a little bit of sleep, make sure our equipment is maintained and ready to go.

“We've also been able to shift salt supplies around the state from a stockpile we have at the Port of Catoosa.”

The Transportation Department normally budgets about $10 million a year to clean up after storms, but that's flexible, spokeswoman Terri Angier said. The state will spend whatever amount is needed and postpone planned road projects, if necessary, she said.