By 1808Delaware
As winter sets in, the City of Delaware is gearing up to keep streets clear and safe through a comprehensive snow and ice management plan. Here’s what residents need to know to navigate snowy conditions, report issues, and comply with city ordinances.
Snow Plowing Priorities Keep Roads Safe
The Public Works Department oversees snow removal for local streets, state routes, and sections of U.S. 23 within the city. Snow plowing is prioritized based on traffic volume and speed limits:
- Priority 1 and 2 Routes: These main roads are addressed first to ensure accessibility. Streets receive pre-treatment with brine ahead of storms, preventing snow and ice from bonding to the pavement and improving plowing efficiency.
- Priority 3 Routes: Residential and neighborhood streets are cleared after Priority 1 and 2 routes, focusing first on areas with upcoming curbside refuse collection. These streets are typically plowed only when snowfall exceeds three inches.
Public bike paths, pedestrian pathways, and parking lots are managed by the Parks and Natural Resources Department, using smaller equipment to ensure thorough snow removal.
Winter Safety Reminders for Residents
To aid in efficient snow and ice management, the city reminds residents of several key safety tips:
- Do not pass plow trucks while they are actively clearing snow.
- Avoid shoveling or blowing snow into the streets from driveways and sidewalks.
- Ensure mailboxes are installed at least six inches behind the curb for plow clearance. For repair assistance, check the city’s Mailbox Repair Information.
- Whenever possible, park vehicles in driveways instead of on streets to assist plowing efforts.
- Protect pets from frostbite by preventing them from walking through puddles of treated brine on extremely cold days.
Sidewalks Must Be Cleared
Delaware’s City Ordinance 521.06 requires property owners and occupants to remove snow and ice from sidewalks promptly. This ensures the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists, keeping them out of vehicular traffic. Violations can be reported to Code Enforcement at 740-203-1600. When reporting, provide the exact address or the business name if applicable.
How to Report Problems
Residents can report issues related to snow and ice management through these channels:
- Phone: 740-203-1810
- Email: The city encourages contacting Public Works directly for any concerns or feedback.
For pothole issues, use the city’s Report a Pothole service.
Snow Operations: Around-the-Clock Efforts
When major snow events are expected, crews switch to 12-hour shifts, including overnight operations. Plow trucks work non-stop until all roads and streets are cleared. To stay updated during storms, residents can follow the latest updates on the city’s Snow and Ice Removal Resources page.
