Snow Removal
The Washington Street Department utilizes 6 trucks (snow plows and salt spreaders) in its snow management program.
Each vehicle has a designated area assigned to allow for optimal clearing of the streets and improved driving conditions allowing for safe travels.
The Washington Street Department crews work around the clock during snow events, initially concentrating on emergency zones, hills, and intersections. Lesser traveled streets are then cleared with cul-de-sacs, and dead ends to follow due to low traffic volumes. After all the streets have had one pass on each lane the crews will start clearing curb to curb.
Why do the snow plow operators plow my driveway shut?
It is impossible for the snow plow operator to plow the windrow from every driveway. Snow plows push snow, it is not a bucket with which you can pick up snow and deposit it elsewhere. To avoid having to double shovel, simply wait until after your street has been plowed to clear your driveway. If you must shovel before the snow plow gets to your street, shovel the snow to the passing side of your driveway (the left side when entering your driveway). The plow will be past your driveway when it hits the snow.
Who clears sidewalks and driveways?
Both are the responsibility of residents and property owners. Residents should shovel snow into the yard, not onto the street. Putting snow onto the street causes dangerously slippery conditions for both motorists and pedestrians. City crews try to avoid putting large piles of snow in front of driveways; however, this is not always possible.
Helpful Tips
- Every effort should be made to remove vehicles from the side of the street.
- Please stay off the streets if you do not need to be on them. Traffic on the streets slows the snow removal process.
- If you meet a snow plow on the street please pull to the side, give it plenty of room to pass.
- If you are following a snow plow please stay back a minimum of 75 feet.
