Road maintenance crews across North Dallas are deploying brine trucks and staging equipment as forecasters track a winter storm system that could bring hazardous conditions to Preston Hollow, the Park Cities, and surrounding areas this week.

The Texas Department of Transportation announced plans to pretreat more than 6,000 miles of roadways across the North Texas region, with crews focusing on major thoroughfares, bridges, and overpasses that typically ice first during winter weather events.

“Our teams are monitoring weather conditions around the clock and are prepared to respond as conditions develop,” said a TxDOT spokesperson. “We’re encouraging all drivers to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel once conditions deteriorate.”

The North Texas Tollway Authority is implementing similar preparations across its network, which includes key routes serving Preston Hollow residents such as the Dallas North Tollway. Crews are positioning salt spreaders and brine trucks at strategic locations to ensure rapid response capabilities.

Local road preparations come as North Dallas communities have experienced several challenging winter weather events in recent years, highlighting the importance of proactive treatment measures. The 2021 winter storm that left much of Texas without power for days remains fresh in residents’ memories, particularly in affluent neighborhoods like Preston Hollow where large trees and power lines created additional hazards.

Highway 75 through the Park Cities and Interstate 635 along North Dallas represent critical arteries that crews will prioritize for treatment. These routes carry thousands of daily commuters from Preston Hollow, Highland Park, and University Park to downtown Dallas and other employment centers.

Brine application typically begins 24 to 48 hours before anticipated winter precipitation. The salt-water mixture helps prevent ice from bonding to pavement surfaces, though its effectiveness diminishes as temperatures drop below certain thresholds.

TxDOT crews are also staging equipment at maintenance facilities throughout Dallas County, ensuring rapid deployment once winter weather arrives. Sand trucks, snow plows, and additional brine applicators stand ready at locations across the region.

The Dallas County Commissioners Court has coordinated with state agencies on winter weather preparations, part of ongoing local government efforts to improve emergency response capabilities following lessons learned from previous weather events.

Highland Park and University Park public works departments are conducting their own preparations for city streets and municipal facilities. Both cities maintain coordination agreements with Dallas County and TxDOT for major weather events.

“Municipal crews are prepared to treat local streets and respond to any weather-related issues,” Highland Park officials confirmed. The city’s public works department focuses on hills, curves, and areas near schools that could become particularly hazardous during winter conditions.

Preston Hollow residents should prepare for potential travel disruptions, particularly during morning and evening commute hours when ice formation tends to be most problematic. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and rolling terrain can create challenging driving conditions even with relatively minor ice accumulation.

Local grocery stores and pharmacies report increased activity as residents stock up on essentials ahead of the potential storm. Tom Thumb and Whole Foods locations in Preston Hollow and the Park Cities typically see elevated demand for bread, milk, batteries, and other storm supplies when winter weather threatens.

School districts serving the area are monitoring conditions closely and may adjust schedules if road conditions deteriorate. Highland Park ISD and Dallas ISD have established protocols for weather-related closures and delays, prioritizing student and staff safety over maintaining normal operations.

Businesses along major corridors like Northwest Highway and Preston Road are reviewing their own winter weather preparations, including parking lot treatment and employee safety protocols. Many establishments adjust operating hours or close entirely during significant winter weather events.

TxDOT emphasizes that even with extensive pre-treatment efforts, drivers should exercise extreme caution during winter weather. Bridge surfaces, overpasses, and shaded areas freeze first and remain hazardous longer than other roadway sections.

The agency recommends avoiding travel during active winter precipitation when possible. Residents who must drive should allow extra time, maintain greater following distances, and avoid sudden movements that could cause loss of control on slick surfaces.

Emergency services across North Dallas are also preparing for increased call volumes during winter weather events. Dallas Fire-Rescue stations serving Preston Hollow and surrounding areas maintain enhanced staffing levels and specialized equipment for cold weather responses.

Weather forecasters continue monitoring the developing system, with updates expected as conditions become clearer. Current projections suggest the greatest impacts could occur during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures typically reach their lowest points.

Road treatment operations will continue throughout the event, though crews may be pulled from highways during the most dangerous conditions for safety reasons. TxDOT coordinates closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure safe operations for both maintenance workers and stranded motorists.

Residents can monitor current road conditions through TxDOT’s DriveTexas website and mobile application, which provides real-time updates on closures, treatments, and hazardous areas throughout the region.