Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, Canada, is known for its cold and snowy winters. The city receives an average of 117.5 cm of snow per year, with the majority of it falling between November and March. To keep the city's roads and sidewalks safe and accessible, the City of Winnipeg has a comprehensive snow clearing plan in place. In this article, we will explore how snow is cleared in Winnipeg and provide a fast solution guide for residents and visitors alike.
Snow Clearing Operations in Winnipeg
The City of Winnipeg’s snow clearing operations are managed by the Public Works Department, which is responsible for clearing snow from over 6,400 kilometers of roads, 1,200 kilometers of sidewalks, and 150 parking lots. The department has a fleet of over 300 snow clearing vehicles, including graders, plows, and sanders, which work around the clock to keep the city’s streets and sidewalks clear. The City of Winnipeg’s snow clearing budget is approximately $30 million per year, which is used to cover the costs of equipment, personnel, and materials.
Prioritization of Snow Clearing
The City of Winnipeg prioritizes snow clearing based on the level of traffic and the importance of the route. The city’s roads are categorized into four priority levels:
- Priority 1: High-traffic roads, such as highways and major arteries, which are cleared first.
- Priority 2: Medium-traffic roads, such as collector roads and bus routes, which are cleared next.
- Priority 3: Low-traffic roads, such as residential streets, which are cleared last.
- Priority 4: Sidewalks and parking lots, which are cleared after the roads.
The City of Winnipeg uses a combination of snow plows, sanders, and graders to clear snow from its roads and sidewalks. Snow plows are used to remove snow from the roads, while sanders are used to apply sand and salt to improve traction. Graders are used to clear snow from sidewalks and parking lots.
Snow Clearing Techniques
The City of Winnipeg uses a variety of snow clearing techniques, including:
- Plowing: Snow is removed from the roads using snow plows, which are equipped with blades that can be raised and lowered as needed.
- Sanding: Sand and salt are applied to the roads to improve traction and prevent ice from forming.
- Grading: Snow is removed from sidewalks and parking lots using graders, which are equipped with blades that can be adjusted to different angles.
- Blowing: Snow is blown off sidewalks and parking lots using snow blowers, which are equipped with fans that can be adjusted to different speeds.
| Snow Clearing Vehicle | Number in Fleet | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Graders | 50 | 10 cubic meters per minute |
| Plows | 100 | 20 cubic meters per minute |
| Sanders | 50 | 5 cubic meters per minute |
| Blowers | 20 | 2 cubic meters per minute |
Fast Solution Guide for Residents and Visitors
For residents and visitors, there are several ways to stay safe and informed during snow clearing operations in Winnipeg. Here are a few tips:
- Check the City of Winnipeg's website for updates on snow clearing operations and road closures.
- Sign up for the City of Winnipeg's snow clearing notification system, which sends emails and text messages to subscribers with updates on snow clearing operations.
- Use the City of Winnipeg's snow clearing app, which provides real-time information on snow clearing operations and road closures.
- Plan your route in advance, using the City of Winnipeg's snow clearing map to avoid roads that are closed or under construction.
- Leave plenty of time to get to your destination, as snow clearing operations can cause delays and road closures.
How do I report a snow clearing concern?
+To report a snow clearing concern, call the City of Winnipeg's 311 service or submit a request online through the City of Winnipeg's website. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including the location and nature of the concern.
How long does it take for the City of Winnipeg to clear snow from roads and sidewalks?
+The time it takes for the City of Winnipeg to clear snow from roads and sidewalks depends on the severity of the snowfall and the priority of the route. In general, the City of Winnipeg aims to clear snow from high-priority roads within 12 hours of the end of the snowfall, and from low-priority roads within 24 hours.
Can I shovel snow from my sidewalk onto the road?
+No, it is not allowed to shovel snow from your sidewalk onto the road. This can create a hazard for drivers and pedestrians, and can also make it more difficult for the City of Winnipeg to clear snow from the road. Instead, shovel snow from your sidewalk onto your lawn or into a designated snow storage area.
In conclusion, snow clearing operations in Winnipeg are an essential part of keeping the city’s roads and sidewalks safe and accessible during the winter months. By understanding how snow is cleared in Winnipeg and following a few simple tips, residents and visitors can stay safe and informed during snow clearing operations.
