Agencies join forces to keep roads safe amid snow and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (March 17, 2026) – St. Patrick’s Day is beginning with a wintry punch across the region, as overnight snow and icy roads forced several school closings — including in Dover, New Philadelphia, and Buckeye Career Center, along with others throughout the county.
Road crews have been active since the early morning hours, treating highways and working in coordination with multiple agencies to keep drivers safe throughout the day.
New Philadelphia State Highway Patrol Sgt. Clinton Armstrong says troopers will conduct an OVI saturation patrol tonight to deter impaired driving during the holiday.
He emphasized that the consequences of an OVI stop can be severe, though he noted that area drivers generally “follow the rules” on St. Patrick’s Day.
The winter weather is expected to continue throughout the day, creating the potential for rapidly changing road conditions.
ODOT District 11 had about 70 trucks out this morning to plow, treat, and monitor the highways, and officials warn drivers to stay alert as conditions shift.