Common Council

Snow Plowing Updates

Reminder of Snow Plowing Protocols 

I did my best to hold off winter for another 4 weeks, but alas the first storm of winter arrived this morning.

The Streets Division crews were out early this morning - November 24th.

• Thirty-two plow trucks hit the roads earlier this morning when the snow began to stick to the pavement. These trucks were applying salt as needed and plowing the snow that accumulated on the salt routes. These trucks will be circling through these routes so long as the snow continues to fall and stick to the roads.

• Salt routes are the major thoroughfares of Madison, like roads around hospitals and Madison Metro bus routes. They make up nearly half of the traffic lanes of Madison.

• The other half of Madison roadways are residential streets. These roads are not salted. They are not plowed until there is three or more inches of snow accumulated on the roadways and the storm is at or near its end. These areas can be sanded if they become slippery due snow or ice. Considering today's storm, we do not expect to plow these residential areas so they are likely to be snow-covered through the day.

It time to refresh your winter driving skills

• Be sure to be slow and patient on these wet, slippery roads.
• Allow for ample space between your vehicle and the one in front of you - especially if it is a plow truck working to keep the streets safe.
• Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destinations safely.
• Finally, make good choices if you are out on a bike, in a car, or otherwise traveling through the city.

The  City of Madison winter website has a plethora of winter information:

• Learn about snow emergencies
• winter parking rules
• sign up for alerts to know where to park so your vehicle is not ticketed or towed.
• Free sand location for you sidewalks and driveways
• Winter recreation options (ice skating and snow shoeing).
• Proper way to spread salt to help minimize the effect it has on our environment and drinking water.

Stay Safe and Stay Well