January 3, 7:30 p.m. - City crews are continuing snow plowing operations with an additional three inches of snow possible tonight. City plow crews will be arriving to work at 4 a.m. on January 4 to plow and de-ice the roadways. City contractors will also continue assisting with snow removal operations. As always, be cautious around plow trucks and equipment that you may see within the City or on the highway. Please allow yourself extra time to get to where you are going!
Once the storm passes, crews will move toward clean-up including removing snow piles and detail plowing. Our goal is to respond to snow and snow plowing concerns within 48 hours after the snowstorm has ended. Crews have worked continuously since December 27 on both snow plowing and opening up drainages to prevent roadway flooding. The Streets Department has identified areas where our efficiency can improve and will be making those changes before the next storm.
Thank you to our community for your patience as we continue working diligently on plowing operations.
PREPARE FOR WINTER TRAVEL:
- Have a plan. Prepare a winterized emergency vehicle kit, ensure Always plan your route in advance and be sure to let someone know your route and ETA.
- Check your tires. Make sure to check the air pressure in all tires, including your spare, and that your tires have good tread — at least 3/16”.
- Perform a safety check. Give your vehicle a tune-up before long trips. This includes getting an oil change if necessary, inspecting the battery, brakes and pads and wiper blades. Ensure you have a full tank of gas, and lastly, check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights.
WHILE YOU’RE ON THE ROAD:
- Drive for the conditions. Ice and packed snow make it hard to stop – give yourself extra space between you and the car in front of you for stopping room. Slow your speeds in winter conditions to prevent accidents – do not drive faster than you can see ahead. Turn on your headlights to improve visibility.
- Bow to the plow. It is illegal to pass a snowplow when it is operating its lights and operating in a tandem formation with one or more snowplows. Don’t crowd the plow, be sure to remain three to four car lengths behind snowplows.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the Street Department at 970-384-6379.
About the City’s Snow Removal Operations:
- There are a total of 10 plow and equipment operators for the City, some of whom come to serve our community from as far as Parachute.
- 6 of the 10 employees are Certified Snow Removal Operators by the American Public Works Association.
- The city has a contractor onboard that helps remove the snow piles down the middle of the road with a snowblower that is 52” tall, 110” wide and weighs 9,000 lbs. Be careful when you see it coming!
###
