Municipal Works provides update on snow and ice removal efforts

Snow removal operations on Cornwall’s streets, boulevards and sidewalks are continuing however due to the large accumulation of snow and ice received in the past couple weeks, combined with the effects of the recent deep freeze-thaw cycles and rainfall activity, these operations are progressing slowly.

The City’s Municipal Works Department is using all available resources, including contractors, to address the snow and ice conditions on roadways and sidewalks.

“Like many other Ontario cities, we are experiencing challenges as the weather has been very changeable and demanding,” said Bill de Wit, Division Manager, Municipal Works. “We want to thank all motorists and pedestrians for their patience and understanding as we continue our snow removal efforts.”

Provided that additional snowfall is not received in the immediate future, City crews and contractors will continue to work during the day and night removing snow to address line of sight issues and snow storage capacity on boulevards.

Due to the development of ice pack conditions on many sidewalks, it is extremely difficult for snow and ice removal operations to proceed in an effective manner. Many sidewalk sections have not been cleared and cannot be cleared using standard sidewalk snow removal equipment. Therefore snow and ice removal on sidewalks which have not been cleared can only continue when warmer weather conditions allow use of standard equipment. Where possible, larger equipment normally used for snow removal on streets and boulevards will be used to clear snow and ice on sidewalks.

Sidewalks which have been cleared will be maintained to an acceptable standard comprised of snow removal with salt and/or sand application. It is important to note that the ice melting effects of salt have limited effect in extremely cold weather conditions. Residents using sidewalks are encouraged to proceed with caution to avoid slips or falls.

Residents who have questions or require further information can contact the Municipal Works Department at (613) 932-5354.

About the City’s transportation network
The City’s transportation network is made up over 270 kilometres of roads, over 170 kilometres of sidewalks, 180 kilometres of roadside ditches, 17 municipal parking lots, 62 traffic signals, and 9,000 traffic signs. These assets are maintained year round in accordance with provincial maintenance standards through activities such as road patrols, crack and pothole repairs and sidewalk trip edge inspections and repairs. In addition, a combination of City and contracted resources are used to maintain the transportation network during the winter months.