Illinois Launches New Dashboard to Track Snow and Ice Response

Online tool provides real-time data on winter road maintenance efforts

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has launched a new online dashboard that gives the public an inside look at how the state responds to winter weather. The dashboard provides up-to-date statistics on salt usage, materials and labor hours used to keep roads safe during snow-and-ice season, as well as the latest numbers on snowplows that have been struck by other vehicles.

Why it matters

The new dashboard aims to increase transparency around IDOT's winter weather response efforts and reinforce the department's 'Don't Crowd the Plow' message, reminding drivers to keep a safe distance from snowplows. It also features a tutorial on the state's winter road conditions map, which relays real-time information from plow drivers in the field.

The details

The dashboard, available on IDOT's website, includes details on salt usage, materials, and labor hours dedicated to keeping Illinois roads clear and safe during winter storms. It also tracks incidents where IDOT snowplows have been struck by other vehicles, which can take those plows out of service for inspection.

  • The new dashboard was launched on March 5, 2026.

The players

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)

The state agency responsible for maintaining Illinois' transportation infrastructure, including roads and highways.

Gia Biagi

Illinois Transportation Secretary, who announced the launch of the new winter weather dashboard.

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What they’re saying

“Few things get us more attention at IDOT than the work of our exceptional snow and ice teams. The new dashboard is a quick, easy way to get you information on how the public's resources are being put to use.”

— Gia Biagi, Illinois Transportation Secretary (capitolcitynow.com)

What’s next

The dashboard will be updated regularly with the latest data on IDOT's winter weather response efforts.

The takeaway

The new IDOT dashboard provides valuable transparency into the state's snow and ice removal operations, helping to keep Illinois residents informed and reinforcing the importance of safe driving around snowplows during winter weather events.