Many factors determine the type of service that we can give during each storm event. Every storm can vary. Available trained personnel, time of snow, equipment breakdowns, amount of snow, temperature, and how many hours spent fighting the storm all play into the picture.
Classifications
Priority 1 - Major Collectors
Priority 1 roads are major collectors. Roads are plowed and salted as determined by the storm event, with bare pavement as soon as possible after the storm. One pass will be taken each direction, salting as needed to open all routes.
Priority 2 - Priority roads in the six zones
Priority 2 roads are priority roads within each of the six snowplow zones. Roads are plowed and salted as determined by the storm event, with bare pavement as soon as possible after the storm. One pass will be taken each direction, salting as needed to open all routes.
After all Priority 1 and 2 routes are open and wet, equipment moves to priority 1 routes and pushes snow back to the curbs. When these are maintained, Priority 2 routes are pushed back to the curb.
Priority 3 - secondary roads
Priority 3 roads are secondary residential roads within each of the six snowplow zones. Roads are plowed and salted as determined by the storm event, with bare pavement as soon as possible after the storm. One pass will be taken each direction, salting as needed to open all routes. Plow trucks may be called to return Priority 1 and 2 routes before completing “Priority 3” routes depending on snow fall amounts and temperature.
After all, Priority 1, 2 and 3 routes are open and the storm has ended, plows move to Priority 1 routes and push snow back to the curb. When these are maintained, plows move to Priority 2 and 3 routes and push snow back to the curb.
PRIORITY 4 - CUL-DE-SACS & DEAD-ENDS
Priority 4 roads are cul-de-sacs, knuckles and dead ends. Roads will be plowed only after such areas receive four or more inches of snow. However, snow may be removed the next available workday, depending on the total amount of snow and man hours spent. Priority 4 routes may receive a single pass after each storm. There are some exceptions throughout the City for prioritized service. If the Priority 4 road has an extremely steep incline or decline and if it eliminates plow trucks backing up, they will receive a single pass with the Priority 3 roads. However, temperature and snow fall amounts will determine whether the above-mentioned roads receive service. Each plow driver will determine whether the Priority 4 roads are plowed depending on the winter event.