HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-30-2006 City Readies for Approaching Winter Weather 4 �
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Office of the Mayor
NEWS RELEASE
Thursday,November 30, 2006
3:15 PM
Contact: Mikki Dobski, Director, Communications & Special Projects, 235-5855 or 876-1564
Teri Lanning, Public Relations, SBPD, 235-7682
Bob Robaska, Manager, Bureau of Streets, 235-9244
Catherine Toppel, Director, Code Enforcement, 235-9486
CITY READIES FOR APPROACHING WINTER
WEATHER
Due to the extreme change in temperatures, and the winter storm warning forecasted for
this weekend, Mayor Stephen J. Luecke and the South Bend Police Department urge all
motorists to exercise caution while driving. Because of the expected precipitation and sudden
temperature drop, drivers are cautioned that "black ice" and slippery conditions are likely, in
addition to the forecasted snow accumulation. It is important that drivers adjust to the winter
conditions by slowing down and allowing more time for travel.
This evening, the Bureau of Streets will have 25 salt trucks on the roads and will continue
working throughout the weekend to keep streets clear. In the event of heavy snow, crews will
be deployed to plow main traffic routes first,beginning at the center of the city and moving
outward, into residential areas.
As plows and salt trucks move throughout the City,residents are urged to observe the
following guidelines:
Winter Driving Guidelines
$ Drive slowly, and with extra caution. Speed limits are set for optimum conditions, not snow
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and ice-coated roads.
$ When driving, keep a safe distance behind snow plows in order to stay clear of the plow:s
blind spots.
$ Do not try to pass plows that are moving in and out between cars parked on the curb line.
This is very dangerous and may cause an accident.
Please note:Residents with loose leaves to be picked up are reminded that snow
plowing will take precedence over leaf pickup.
RESIDENTIAL SNOW & ICE REMOVAL
In addition,property owners and residents are urged to do their best to keep their
sidewalks shoveled. It is the responsibility of the owner or occupant of any premises on any city
street to remove snow and ice from the public sidewalk within 24 hours after snow or ice has
fallen or accumulated. If an owner or occupant fails to comply,the City may remove snow and
ice after giving the owner or occupant 24 hours written notice, and the owner or occupant will be
responsible for the cost of removal.
Keeping our sidewalks clear of snow and ice is especially important for the safety of
children and elders. Clear sidewalks also provide a safe working environment for those who
work in our neighborhoods, including utility locators, postal workers, newspaper delivery
people, and others who provide services to and around our homes.
Snow Removal Guidelines:
$ Never allow children to play in snow piles along curb lines. Please restrict them from
building forts in snow piles along the curb lines.
$ Do not shovel or blow snow into the street causing a traffic obstruction.
$ Please park on driveways or in garages, away from curb lines, whenever possible.
Christmas is nearly upon us, and so is winter weather! Neighbors are encouraged to look
out for and help each other, as some may be unable to move their snowed-in vehicles or clear
their curbs and sidewalks without assistance. The City also reminds everyone that the spirit of
the season is not just about helping others but also respecting their safety. Remember to look out
for snowplows and other drivers, and help celebrate the holiday season by making South Bend a
"Safe City!"
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