Snow Clearing in Redwater: Costs, Resources, and Why Your Help Matters

Snow clearing in Redwater is a complex operation that requires time, staff, and equipment to ensure streets are clear and safe for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the resources involved, the time it takes, and why resident cooperation is key to making the process run smoothly.

What Goes Into Snow Clearing

1. Time
   • A full snow clearing operation usually takes 30-40 hours of work, spread over 4-5 days. The exact timing depends on the snowfall and weather conditions.
2. Staff Resources
   • It takes 6-8 staff members to clear the snow, with each person responsible for a specific task. From operating the machinery to managing operations, teamwork is essential for efficiency.
3. Equipment Used
   • We use a combination of the following equipment to get the job done:
     • Grader: For clearing wide sections of roads.
     • Skid Steer: For smaller areas and parking lots.
     • Tractor/Snow Blower: To clear snow and blow it into tandem trucks.
     • Tandem Truck: For hauling snow away from cleared areas.
     • Plow Truck: For moving and pushing snow from streets.
     • Toolcat: A multi-purpose machine for clearing sidewalks and tight spaces.

Why Your Help Matters

When vehicles are parked on the street during snow clearing, it slows down the process and increases costs. Here’s why your cooperation is crucial:

1. More Space for Crews
   • When vehicles are off the street, it allows snowplows and other equipment to navigate more easily, clearing roads more efficiently.
2. Faster Service
   • With enough space, crews can clear streets faster, reducing delays and improving safety for everyone.
3. Cost Savings
   • By not blocking snow removal equipment, we can avoid having to work around obstacles, reducing the time spent on each street. This helps lower the cost of snow clearing for the community.
4. Safety First
   • Clear roads mean safer roads for everyone, especially emergency vehicles like fire trucks, police, and ambulances.

How You Can Help

Residents play a crucial role in keeping Redwater’s streets clear and safe. Here’s how you can support snow clearing efforts:

1. Follow Temporary No-Parking Signs
   • Move vehicles off the street when signs are posted to allow for efficient snow clearing.
2. Avoid Parking on Priority 1 & 2 Routes
   • Priority 1 and 2 routes will be cleared automatically when snow falls, so avoid parking on these roads during snow events to help plows clear them quickly.
3. Be Considerate
   • If you see a snow clearing operation happening, please avoid parking on the street so crews can work without delay.

Why Off-Street Parking Matters

To ensure smooth snow clearing operations, Redwater’s Land Use Bylaw requires two off-street parking spaces per residential property. This ensures there is enough room for vehicles during snow clearing and keeps streets clear for snow removal, emergency access, and safe passage for all residents.

Snow Clearing Costs

Snow clearing in Redwater is an essential service, and it comes at a significant cost. Each snow event can cost the Town approximately $30,000 to $35,000, depending on snow accumulation and operational expenses. By working together, we can help reduce delays and costs, ensuring efficient snow clearing all winter long.

Conclusion: Working Together for Safer Streets

Effective snow clearing in Redwater relies on cooperation between the Town and its residents. Following temporary no-parking signs and keeping Priority 1 and 2 routes clear during snow events helps our teams work faster and more efficiently. Every small effort contributes to the safety and accessibility of our streets during winter.

For more details on snow clearing, visit our Snow Clearing Policy.

Have more questions or suggestions for Monday Municipality Matters? Reach out to us at redwater@redwater.ca!