City Launches Increased Plow Effort, Getting Into Residential Areas

Kirstin Davis, Communications Manager, 509.625.7773

Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 9:08 a.m.

The City of Spokane has launched an increased maintenance plowing effort to address new snowfall this morning along with varying depths of snow in residential areas. This approach is designed to adapt to changing conditions, especially if forecasted rain materializes later today.

Snow teams are plowing, sanding and deicing in arterials now and will move into residential areas that need plowing, starting with residential hill areas, this evening. Additional crews from water and wastewater will join the plowing efforts. The City will update the progress on work on the City’s plow map.

“The various rounds of snow, combined with some rain and melting, have left a variety of conditions in the residential areas. Some areas need plowing while others don’t,” says Street Director Clint Harris. “We will work our way around the entire City to plow where it makes sense, improving conditions overall.”

Plow teams in residential areas will use snow gates to avoid leaving berms at the end of driveways as much as possible. The City has 17 pieces of equipment outfitted with those gates. Crews will work to plow snow away from the curb a bit to help keep snow away from sidewalks.

When driving in these wintry conditions, the City is asking motorists to slow down, be patient, and drive according to the conditions.  Don't follow plows closely, and please do not try to pass plow trucks; it is very dangerous.

Here’s how the community can help:

  • Vehicles should be parked on the odd side of the street in residential areas to assist plows. Berms are likely in front of cars, even those parked on the odd side of the street. The parking restrictions are intended to allow plow drivers to do a better job of clearing snow in neighborhoods and to complete their work more efficiently.
  • The City asks residents and businesses to clear a 36-inch pedestrian path on sidewalks. Please assist your neighbors who may need help removing snow from their driveways and sidewalks.  Seniors or disabled individuals can call 3-1-1 to connect with resources for shoveling sidewalks.
  • Don’t blow or shovel snow into the street, but back into your yard. 
  • Clear snow off parked cars to allow plow drivers to see them better and
  • Consider clearing snow and ice around mailboxes and storm drains