With the current weather forecast calling for heavy snow overnight, the City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event.
What does this mean?
Public Works crews may take longer than normal to clear some roadways and sidewalks. Main and collector roadways will be cleared first before crews are able to get to residential neighbourhoods and sidewalks.
"The parking by-law remains in effect with motorists not permitted to park on city streets during the winter months between midnight and 6 a.m.," says a news release issued by the city. "However, during a winter event, motorists should not park on city streets or impede sidewalks during the day to assist in the efficiency of snow removal."
Full text of the news release follows:
The City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event with respect to hazardous winter storm conditions continuing until further notice. Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for Sault Ste. Marie and area with 10 to 15 cm of heavy snowfall expected today and continuing into Tuesday. Locally, higher amounts of snow are expected over higher terrain.
Public Works work diligently during winter events, but it may take longer than normal to ensure public safety and that the roadways, sidewalks, and transit bus stops meet normal maintenance standards. Public Works monitors the weather and patrols the roadways to deploy all available crews to address any snow and ice accumulation. During a winter event, all roads and sidewalks maintained by the city are considered to be in a “state of repair”.
Snow will be cleared first from the main and collector roadways. The clearing of residential areas and designated sidewalks will be delayed until the main roadways and collector roads are cleared and safe. Sidewalks should not be blocked at any time to facilitate snow removal. Residents are reminded that the snow plowed to the end of their driveway during a significant snow event is their responsibility and may be more than usual.
Do not place garbage and recycling carts out the night before collection as this causes issues with snow plowing and snow removal. Garbage and recycling carts should be placed curbside before 7 a.m. the morning of the designated collection day.
Motorists should drive according to the conditions and allow space for heavy equipment operators to clear and sand roadways safely and efficiently. The parking by-law remains in effect with motorists not permitted to park on city streets during the winter months between midnight and 6 a.m. however, during a winter event, motorists should not park on city streets or impede sidewalks during the day to assist in the efficiency of snow removal.
Transit Services reminds customers to expect delays because of heavy snowfall.
Updates will be posted to the city’s website and social media sites as required. Thank you for your cooperation.