4.5 SR 08-21-2023 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Snow & Ice Control Policy Forward The purpose of sno`v/ice control is to provide for the safetyT and mobilityT of the public during periods of heav�T sno�vfall, accumulation and ic�T conditions. Planned levels of service and existing capabilities of the cityr must be carefullyr corYelated with opeYational costs and expected benefits. It is the Yesponsibilityr of the Public Works Department to provide a level of snow and ice control consistent `vith the City of Elk River's approved level of service and corresponding funding. This policy provides for the planned and orderl�T control of snow/ice on cit�T-maintained streets, alleyTs, `valks, parking lots and some trails during periods of inclement `veather. Operations are performed and coordinated byT Streets and Parks personnel, with assistance from other divisions as needed. A planned, coordinated appYoach is essential to ensure effective and efficient Yesponse to snow and ice conditions. Unplanned, reactive responses to localized conditions conflict with and inhibit an effective approach to citywide snow/ice events. This policyT is also a summaryT of procedures and policies of the cityT as theyT relate to snow and ice control operations. Snow control is hazaYdous, tiring, and stressful, often not fullyr understood byr the public. Operations are performed frequentlyT at night and often require cre`vs to `vork arduous hours, on `veekends, and holidayTs. Introduction The entire communityT has a role in keeping Elk River safe for winter traveL The cityT assumes the responsibilityT for control of sno`v and ice on cityT-maintained streets, alleyTs, `valks, parking lots and trails, while propertyT owners are responsible for private streets, parking lots, alleys, and sidewalks abutring their propertyT. Reasonable ice and snow control is necessaryT to ensure all transportation pathwayTs function as well as possible under even the most extreme weather conditions for routine travel and emergencyT services. The cityT will provide such control in as safe and cost-effective manner as practical, keeping in mind safetyT, budget, personnel, and environmental concerns. The cit�T `vill use a combination of cityT employTees, equipment, and may also utilize private contractoYs if needed. This policy will be enforced equallyT throughout the CityT of Elk River. Poi��y Decision to Begin Operations The Street and Park Superintendent oY designee(s) will decide when to begin snow and/or ice control operations. The criteria foY that decision will include: ■ Reasonable thYeat of inclement weatheY pYedicted to occur within 24 hours. ■ Storm conditions that warrant pre-treatment with salt or brine solution. ■ Snow accumulation or as road conditions warrant (drifting, icing, etc.). ■ Time of sno`vfall. ■ Forecasted temperatures post snow event. Use of Salt and Sand The cit�- mayT use salt, salt brine, sand, or a mixture thereof �vhen there is hazardous ice or other conditions that warrant their use. Application `vill follo`v the same priorities followed for snow and ice control set forth