In preparation for impending winter weather, the City of Valparaiso is reminding residents of snow emergency plans and reintroducing a snow removal map, indicating priority streets, neighborhoods and cul-de sacs. “Our top priority is the safety of our community. We’ve got an excellent team and a proven plan for snow removal. We thank residents and drivers for their patience and remind everyone to slow down,” said Steve Poulos, Valpo’s City Services Director.
The snow removal map is available at http://www.ci.valparaiso.in.us/1617/Snow-Removal
Valparaiso reminds residents of the following procedures in snow emergencies:
- Per City Ordinance, please remove vehicles from City streets when there is two or more inches of snow. It is nearly impossible to remove snow from the streets when vehicles are lining the curb. Please park vehicles in garages, driveways, or parking lots until the streets are cleared of snow.
- Per City Ordinance, please do not push snow into the roads for your safety and the safety of others. The plowing process inevitably results in some snow being pushed back into already cleared driveways. (Please note, that Public Works will not remove snow from driveway entrances.) To reduce the chance of this happening and creating more work for residents, Public Works recommends that residents clear an open area to the left of your driveway (as you look at the street from your door). This open area gives the street snow a place to land without blocking driveways. Please see the diagram below for more information:
- During snow emergencies, main thoroughfares and emergency routes will be cleared first and will remain the focus in overnight hours. Side streets, neighborhoods, and cul-de-sacs will be cleared once the emergency routes are safe to travel. The new snow removal map is posted at Valpo.us on the Public Works page for Snow Removal.
- Keep an eye on neighbors, particularly seniors and others who may have difficulty clearing snow or accessing help. The Valparaiso Police Department offers a Contact Assistance Referral Program (CARE) to check on residents with special needs when the weather is severe. To register yourself or a loved one, contact Captain Joe Hall at Jhall@valpopd.com or 219-462-2135.