November 23, 2022 3:40 a.m.

With a busy holiday weekend almost here, staff with the Oregon Department of Transportation is asking for help from drivers.

A release said due to a number of vacant positions, drivers should expect less snow plowing. ODOT said similar levels of service will continue in the years to come, unless there are changes to long-term funding, as the agency anticipates having fewer staff available. Tips for safe winter travel include:

*The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel times of the year, regardless of conditions. Expect delays, plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

*Be careful when traveling over mountain passes. Check www.tripcheck.com for road conditions

*Pay attention to roadside message signs as they contain critical information about road conditions ahead, such as chain requirements

*Be ready for wintry conditions by carrying chains and knowing how to use them. Pack supplies in case there are major delays. This should include food, water, blankets, warm clothes and medications

*Drive for the conditions. Slow down and give space for more stopping time, especially if the road is slick

*Give snowplows extra space and never pass on the right

*Be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists who are often less visible in the winter

Most ODOT construction work will be paused over the holiday weekend to allow for extra traffic. Travelers in and around Corvallis should expect traffic delays Saturday due to the Oregon-Oregon State football game, which kicks off at 12:30 p.m.