This afternoon, Sangamon County declared a Level 2 Weather Emergency, indicating roads are very dangerous due to snow accumulation and drifting, and emergency crews may experience difficulties reaching stranded motorists. Illinois State Police are describing area roads as "extremely dangerous", and multiple government and medical offices, schools, and other services are closing early with most planning to remain closed on Thursday.
With as much as twice the amount of snow already on the ground expected to fall between this afternoon and tomorrow afternoon, continuing hazardous conditions, and roads and sidewalks expected to take some time to clear, SMTD is suspending all service through Thursday, February 3rd. While we never want to suspend service, conditions warrant doing so Thursday for the safety of our passengers, our employees, and any drivers and emergency personnel that have to be out tomorrow.
SMTD will re-evaluate roads late Thursday and early Friday morning, but we plan to begin regular schedules Friday morning with the exception of Urbanized Area service to Chatham, Riverton, Rochester, and Sherman, which we plan to resume Monday. Updates will be posted on the website and social media as necessary. We apologize for any inconvenience, and we hope everyone stays safe and warm.
