Lake County Gazette

High Park City Council is set to adopt changes to the Snow and Ice Control Plan at its upcoming meeting on September 26. The proposed plan aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of snow removal efforts in the city.

One of the key changes being considered is the target time for completing street plowing once the snowfall has stopped. The council is looking to ensure that all streets are cleared within six to eight hours, allowing for safer and easier travel for residents.

Another proposed change is the continuation of the ban on overnight parking on public streets from 2 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the winter season. This ban, which runs from December 1 through March 31, helps to facilitate efficient snow removal by preventing vehicles from obstructing the plowing process.

In addition, there is a shift in responsibility for sidewalk snow removal. Under the new plan, city staff will be responsible for clearing residential sidewalks when there is an accumulation of 4 inches or more of snow. This is a departure from the previous practice of hiring contractors for this task. However, due to the extensive sidewalk network in High Park, it may take up to 48 hours or more to clear all of the city's 130 miles of sidewalks.

Lastly, the proposed changes include specific measures to prioritize high pedestrian areas. Crosswalks with high foot traffic, especially those near schools, will be cleared after street plowing has been completed. Additionally, areas such as city business districts, train stations, and public buildings will undergo hand shoveling to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.

Overall, the changes being considered for the Snow and Ice Control Plan in High Park aim to provide more efficient and effective snow removal services to residents. By targeting specific areas, implementing parking bans, and adjusting sidewalk clearing responsibilities, the city hopes to improve safety and minimize disruptions caused by winter weather.