As winter tightens its grip on Ontario, the City of Barrie has provided a detailed explanation of its snow and ice control operations, clarifying what residents can expect the municipality to clear and what remains their own responsibility.
City of Barrie's Snow Clearing Priorities
The city's winter maintenance strategy is guided by a priority system designed to ensure the safety and mobility of the public. Primary arterial roads and emergency routes are cleared first, followed by secondary collectors and then local residential streets. This tiered approach allows crews to focus resources on keeping major thoroughfares and access routes for emergency services open during and immediately after a snowfall.
Sidewalk clearing is another key service. The city clears sidewalks adjacent to city-owned property, on bridges, and in certain business areas. However, it is crucial for property owners to remember that clearing the sidewalk directly in front of their private residence or business is their legal responsibility. This helps ensure safe pedestrian passage throughout neighbourhoods.
What Residents Are Responsible For
While the city handles the roadways and specific sidewalks, several winter tasks fall to residents and business owners. These include:
- Clearing snow and ice from all sidewalks bordering their property.
- Keeping fire hydrants on or near their property clear and accessible.
- Ensuring that snow from their private driveways or plows is not pushed onto city streets, which is illegal and can create hazardous conditions.
- Being patient as plows make their way through all designated routes, which can take up to 24 hours after a storm ends for residential areas.
The city also reminds motorists to adjust their driving for conditions, to stay back from working plows, and to avoid parking on streets during snow events to facilitate efficient clearing.
Staying Informed During Winter Storms
Residents can stay updated on the status of plowing operations and any declared "snow events" through the City of Barrie's official website and social media channels. Understanding the division of duties helps the community work together to navigate the winter season safely. Proper planning and awareness of these protocols ensure that Barrie remains operational and accessible, even during the heaviest lake-effect snowfalls typical of the region.
By outlining these responsibilities, the city aims to manage expectations and foster cooperation, ensuring that everyone does their part to keep Barrie moving through the long Canadian winter.
