FEBRUARY 12TH Snow Update

​Good afternoon,
 
Here is this afternoon’s snow removal update:
 
Staff was called in to start working on highways and arterials by 3:30 am Tuesday morning and plowing operations started at 4:30 am this morning. The rest of the crew began clearing residential streets at 7:00 am. As long as we don’t experience any significant equipment problems we should complete that activity by 5:00 pm.
 
We will continue to patrol highways and arterials into the evening (7-8:00 pm) when snow is expected to taper off. At that point we expect to send everyone home to get a brief rest (and get their own driveways shoveled out).
 
By 11:00 am this morning we had 9” of snow and it continues to fall. Forecasts vary, so the next few days could be challenging for everyone.
 
We are planning to bring in a full complement of staff to perform another complete snow plowing operation beginning at 12:00 midnight tonight. Intersection sanding/salting will continue thereafter. With a snow emergency in effect, please do not park on the streets so we can get them cleared.
 
We will work on pulling snow out downtown as soon as possible. At this time I would estimate it will be early next week before we can get to that.
 
The snow banks on the boulevards are high enough that the snow coming off of the plows is starting to narrow the streets, so be cautious driving and parking. Residents can help by shoveling sidewalk snow into their yards instead of the boulevards. Please note that City ordinance prohibits blowing snow back into the streets.
 
Staff are working hard to get the streets clear, and it can be extremely difficult for them to see everything, so whether you are driving, walking, or shoveling your driveway or sidewalk please assume they do not see you and for everyone’s safety please stay well clear of the equipment.
 
Thank you all for your patience.
 
Joseph M. Terry, P.E.
Director of Public Works