PHOTOS: Monster Plows Come to Maryland

Ever wish the state would just get a bigger plow to clear off Route 50 quicker? Do you wonder why it seems to take forever to clear enough lanes to safely travel on Interstate 97?

Well, the Maryland State Highway Administration thinks it has the answer. Officials announced Thursday that it plans to put two super-sized, double-duty "tow plows" on state roads this winter.

Tow plows are making their way to Maryland after testing in Missouri. They work as part of a train, towing behind and to the side of maintenance trucks. They may also be used to salt roads after storms or to pre-treat roads before snow with salt brine.

SHA officials said the plows will reduce fuel costs and emissions because one driver can cover the area of two plows. 

"Snow is something we think about 24/7, 365 days a year," said Valerie Burnette Edgar, administration spokeswoman, at a press event of the Intercounty Connector.

The SHA also will be employing a "snow squad" of driver tipsters. 

"It's citizen volunteers who will be reporting to us conditions to expand our eyes out there and let us know conditions real time," Edgar said. 

For more information on how to become part of the snow squad, head to the SHA website. Information on state roads is available through Maryland's 511 program.

Call 511 or 1-855-GOMD511 or visit md511.org.