Residents Asked to Make Way for Plows When the Snow Falls

The City of Kelowna is asking for residents to help crews do their job once the first snowfall of the season occurs.

Snow removal and sanding trucks are ready for the forecasted snow as up to 15 centimetres are in the forecast for Tuesday. Residents are being asked to move their vehicles off of the street before the snow falls so that crews can help plows move easily through areas.

“Crews are at work clearing the streets before most people are awake,” said Stephen Bryans, Roadways Operations Supervisor. “That’s why it’s important for vehicles to be moved prior to the snow falling. If streets, particularly cul-de-sacs, are clear of vehicles, our crews are able to do a better job of clearing the roads safely, efficiently and quickly. At this time, a snow event advisory for the temporary parking ban on snow routes is not in effect.”

The City clears snow and de-ices municipal roads (excluding provincial Highways 33 and 97) based on their priority status. Priority 1 includes high-traffic roads such as Gordon Drive. Priority 2 includes collector roads such as Richter Street, bus routes, school zones, town centres and emergency vehicle stations. Priority 3 includes local roads in neighbourhoods and Priority 4 includes laneways.

“It is important to note that priority three roads will not be cleared until service levels of Priority 1 and 2 roads have been achieved,” said Bryans. “If another storm occurs prior to the completion of the Priority 2 to 4 roads, our attention will shift back to Priority 1 routes.”

While the city will keep roads clear, residents and businesses are responsible for clearing private driveways and sidewalks adjacent to their property. Some residents find snow clearing a difficult task, particularly seniors or those with mobility challenges. The City encourages residents to help out their neighbours by becoming a Snow Buster.

Residents can thank their Snow Buster by nominating them to win Kelowna Rockets tickets. To submit a nomination, visit the City’s transportation webpage, email snowbusters@kelowna.ca, or send a letter to City of Kelowna Snow Busters program, 1435 Water St., Kelowna, B.C., V1Y 1J4.