ST. PAUL - Town of St. Paul crews continue to work through the changing weather, ample snowfall, and challenges that come along with keeping the roads in the municipality passable.
"This year is simply more challenging than the last with the amount of snow we have received as a region," says Town of St. Paul CAO Steven Jeffery. "What I can say is that it seems like we're experiencing more of the extreme weather situations this year, and for a longer period of time, than we're normally used to."
Snow removal has taken up a lot of time for the Town's public works crew this winter. "and more often than not, they have been focused on the high priority areas due to the frequent snowfalls and high winds," explains Jeffery.
Because of the ongoing conditions, crews have been busy working in the Priority 1 and 2 areas, as outlines in the Town's policy. Priority streets include main street, streets and avenues around schools, the roads near the hospital, and roads near seniors housing, for example.
Along with the snowfall, the mild conditions that were experienced last week present yet another challenge for public works. As the snow melts and standing water begins to collect in low areas, issues can arise.
"So, mid-February, crews need to go out with steaming equipment and remove the ice blockages from the catch basins to allow surface water to drain all the while still trying to complete a day of snow removal with the heavy equipment. Throw a water main break in the mix and you've got a crew with a plate that is very full, never mind all of the other daily operations that still need to occur," says Jeffery.
But, despite how busy crews are, they continue to adapt to the situations that arise, keeping utilities running and streets clear.
The Town of St. Paul's Snow and Ice Clearing Policy include a breakdown of the different priority roads within the municipality.
According to the policy, which can be accessed through the Town's website, Priority 1 roads include: the hospital route, fire Hall entrance, the area around the Town hall, the area around the FCSS building, the Wellness Centre, main street from 57th Street to 44th Street, areas around Lakeshore Drive, areas near the RCMP detachment, and areas near the industrial park.
Priority 2 areas include much of the recreation facilities, such as the arenas, swimming pool and library. Other roads in town are listed under priority 3, 4, and 5.
The Town's Snow and Ice Clearing Policy is expected to be brought forward at the Monday evening council meeting, with amendments being proposed.
