Updated snowfall policy aims to clear priority roads within 96 hours
An updated municipal winter maintenance policy means snow crews will now work around the clock to clear streets after a major snowfall while also completing priority routes within 96 hours.
For the 2019-20 winter maintenance program, three seasonal employees with the Department of Engineering Services have transitioned to permanent positions and will join the program during the winter months. These full-time permanent staff will allow the municipality to offer a split shift during the winter, with one crew working during the day and the other working in the evenings and throughout the night.
The use of contracted services will also continue for some services, such as hauling, and as required, especially during heavy snowfalls.
City council voted 6-1 to approve the updated winter maintenance policy during its Oct. 15 regular meeting. The policy reflects the municipality’s new level of service, primarily the completion of priority routes within 96 hours.
Coun. Brian Swanson was opposed.
Priority ratings for snow clearing have been revised, according to a report from city administration. Priority one routes include arterial roads and emergency services buildings.
Priority two areas include bus routes, while priority three areas include the remaining collector roads and areas with potential drainage issues.
Priority four includes local collector routes, priority five areas focus on all remaining roads, while priority six areas include parking lots.
The winter maintenance policy indicates priority one roads will be cleared within 24 hours of a storm; priority two roads within 48 hours; priority three roads within 72 hours; and priority four roads within 96 hours. Priority five roads will be maintained based on rutting and drainage, while priority six parking lots will be maintained based on their condition.
Besides response times and increase in levels of service in clearing roads after a snowfall, it is anticipated that there will be other improvements to levels of service — such as sidewalk clearing and sanding — due to the availability of more crews, the report said. The response and level of service for other areas will be monitored so this can be further refined and communicated.
“It should be noted that the first year of implementation will involve learning and working out the details and efficiencies of the new policy,” the report added. “There will be improvements to communication on operations and activities after an event, largely based on clear priorities and timelines.”
As part of the 2019 budget process, council approved an extra $132,000 in funding for snow operations. The proposed policy will fit within those funding parameters established for such operations.