The city will hold a series of community open houses on its new winter weather plan and preparations for the upcoming winter season.

The Seattle Department of Transportation invites the public to attend to learn more about the plan and tips for being fully prepared for sometimes unpredictable and adverse winter weather.

The schedule for the Winter Weather Open Houses will be as follows:

-Tuesday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m. – Jefferson Community Center

-Wednesday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m. – Delridge Community Center

-Tuesday, Oct. 27, 7 p.m. – Queen Anne Community Center

-Wednesday, Oct. 28, 3 p.m. – City Hall, Boards and Commissions Conference Room

The new plan, which was released earlier this month, will facilitate a coordinated response aimed at keeping buses moving and critical institutions accessible.

Here are some highlights of the plan:

-A new approach to snow that includes an expanded use of salt brine and salt, and limited use of sand.

-Significant improvements to facilities and fleet to include GPS technology and weather awareness.

-An improved organizational structure and significant training for winter storms.

-A commitment to better communicate with the people of Seattle and agency partners.

-Performance measures to objectively evaluate accomplishments.

For directions to the Winter Weather Open Houses or to learn more about the plan, click here .