HARTFORD, Conn — As Connecticut continues to sit in those below freezing temperatures, people are slowly returning to their daily routines. Because of this, the Connecticut Department of Transportation is working long hours to make sure roads are clear and people are safe.
However, not everybody has the option to work from home or stay home from school. Whether you’re a plow driver or even a bagel maker, some people are up bright and early fighting those elements to serve the public in one way or another.
Over the past 24 hours, you might’ve noticed that Connecticut cars and roads turned into something of an ice box. Henry Blackwell said his commute was a bit rough in spots on Wednesday morning.
“They’re pretty bad, they are slippery, it looks like they’re trying to knock that down a little bit but they are pretty slippery,” Blackwell said.
Although for those who like the snow, such as Olmo Bagelry Owner Craig Hutchinson, a little ice is expected for the northern lifestyle.
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“I love it, that’s why I live in New England, it’s part of the morning ritual, get up early get the car warmed up,” Hutchinson said.
From the looks of the highways, many people were able to avoid the dark and icy morning rush, but there are a few who decided to brave it, from salt truck drivers to salty bagel makers.
“We get here between 4-5a.m. depending on the volume, sometimes as early as 3a.m.,” Hutchinson said.
New Haven’s Olmo Bagelry staff members were slicing, toasting, and spreading before the sun came up, hoping people would be coming in.
“We are usually pretty busy on a consistent basis regardless of weather,” Hutchinson said.
Customers tell us when it’s cold, a warm bagel is a must.
“I had to come to Olmo set my day up right, today I came in on my way to work for a plain bagel with chive cream cheese,” Blackwell said.
The owner saying he loves winter weather, but only when it’s not impacting the business.
“We’ve actually had a bunch of cancellations because of the ice and peoples work events cancelled,” Hutchinson said. “So we are navigating that but hopefully a million people walk through these door momentarily.”
He tells us as long as the roads are passable, they will be open and ready to take those early morning orders.
Connecticut will see those very chilly temperatures over the next few days, especially as the sun goes down. The CTDOT tells us to make sure you give yourself extra time it could still be slick in some spots keep that in mind as you head through your week.
Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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