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2008 News and Information
City Crews Working Hard to Keep Major Roads Clear
17 December 2008City of Richmond roads department have been working around the clock since yesterday in an effort to keep roads clear during this latest snow storm. Currently, there are no major problems to report, and crews are working hard in their attempts to stay on top of any snow accumulation. The snow is expected to abate tonight, with temperatures dropping again. Another system is expected on the weekend (December 20 – 21).
City crews maintain 310 kms of designated routes—all major thoroughfares and all bus routes—with up to 12 trucks, salting, sanding and plowing during snow storms, as well as clearing sidewalks in front of civic facilities and bus stops. Commercial, industrial and multi-family property owners are required to clear the walkways in front of their properties by 10 a.m., except Sunday. School District 38 clears school property.
The City’s response actually starts before the snow begins to fall. Staff receive daily weather reports for the next 48 hour period. If snow is forecast, crews start working up to 12 hours ahead laying down salt on the roads to prevent ice build up. As salt becomes ineffective on its own with temperatures below –6 C, sand is added to the mix during colder periods.
Richmond side streets are not part of the 310 km of designated snowclearing and salting routes; to include them would require far greater resources than the City currently has, and Richmond’s typography, weather patterns and street design make that a less effective use of those resources. Typically, snow storms such as today’s occur about 12 times per season.
The City strongly advises all drivers to proceed cautiously, ensure their cars are properly equipped with snow-rated tires, clear all windows and car lights from snow for visibility, and provide extra travel time to reach destinations safely, or take public transit. Pedestrians are also advised to be aware that small snowclearing equipment may be on the sidewalks and to proceed cautiously.
