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Gov. Markell: No state of emergency

Gov. Jack Markell (D) is holding off on declaring a state of emergency or implementing a driving ban as snow continues to fall across the state.

"We're constantly evaluating whether a state of emergency would be warranted, but at this time, with schools and state offices closed, many drivers are already staying off the road and DelDOT has been able to sufficiently keep up with this storm on the primary roads," Markell said.

He notes that his office will reevaluate that decision as the day goes on.

Snow has been heavier in Kent and New Castle Counties, with Markell closing state offices for non-essential employees earlier this morning.

"We suggest drivers who do not need to travel refrain from going on the roads today, particularly during the heaviest snowfall, to give DelDOT plows time and ability to work," he said.

"Remember to reduce speed and increase your following distance between vehicles. Allow a lot of time to get to your destination and use headlights to increase visibility, but again, if you don't have to be out, don't be out."

Markell also asked Delawareans to check on their neighbors – especially seniors and those with disabilities. "If you can shovel or snow blow a neighbor's driveway, please do so," he said.

As of 2 p.m., Delaware State Police have responded to 40 disabled vehicles, ten injury accidents and have counted 68 property damage incidents – most of which are in Kent and New Castle Counties.

DelDOT spokesman Jim Westhoff said Wednesday that salt reserves are at about 50 percent capacity, but are constantly being refreshed from their suppliers. No cost figures for this winter storm season are available, according to Westhoff, but he says that the bill is "well below" what the agency spent last year.

Projections from last April for all storm-related costs totaled nearly $17.9 million for fiscal year 2015, breaking the record set in fiscal year 2010. DelDOT officials were not available to provide updated figures at this time.

Markell noted that bad weather also hits DelDOT's budget, which he says is "a real challenge" after legislators ignored his pleas for a boost in transportation spending last year, partially funded by a proposed ten-cent gas tax hike.

"When we have these storms, I mean, it just takes away from what we can do in terms of rebuilding, paving roads and building roads and bridges and the like. This is one of the reasons that we need to make sure we have the necessary funding so we can continue to invest in our roads and bridges," he said.

State lawmakers boosted the amount of money set aside for storm cleanup costs last year from $3 million to $10 million annually.

The bulk of the snow is expected throughout the afternoon and evening, with a winter storm warning in effect from the National Weather Service until 7 p.m. tonight.

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