Area counties rolling back travel restrictions

Note: This story has been updated

Jackson County was the first area county to lower its travel restrictions, stepping back to an orange travel watch status yesterday afternoon.

Under a travel watch, conditions are said to be threatening to the safety of the public. Only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended, and emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations.

Jackson County emergency management officials said that the county only restricts travel when absolutely necessary. They said a “Red Travel Status impacts thousands of people, including hospital staff, essential workers, and local businesses.”

Jackson County Highway Department worked throughout the night and significantly improved road conditions, they said. Most roads have received treatment (salt or sand) and have been plowed at least once. Some remote areas are still requiring additional time to receive full coverage due to the travel distance for crews returning to the garage for additional materials.

In our area, Bartholomew, Decatur Johnson and Shelby counties have also dropped back to an orange travel watch status.

Brown  and Jennings counties remain under a red travel warning as of this morning. Brown County has announced plans to consider relaxing restrictions at a noon meeting today. A red travel warning means roads are restricted to emergency vehicles only. You are directed to refrain from all travel, comply with necessary emergency measures, cooperate with public officials and obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.

Bartholomew County officials will be considering lowering the restrictions level when they meet this morning.