Mayor Evans Reminds Rochesterians Of Winter Snow Responsibilities

Residents, Business Owners, and City Work Together to Make Winter Safe for All

Rochester, NY - As the calendar heads toward the Winter Solstice and the official start of winter, Mayor Malik D. Evans urges Rochesterians to work together to manage wintry weather.

"December has brought snow to our area nearly every day this month, so it’s important to remember – we are all responsible for helping keep our neighborhoods safe and accessible," said Mayor Evans. "Check in on your neighbors and help those who may need assistance. When we all work together, the winter landscape becomes all the more enjoyable!"

The Mayor reminded property owners to do their part by shoveling snow and removing ice from sidewalks adjacent to their properties, as required by City Code. He also noted that it is prohibited to plow or shovel snow from private property onto a city street or sidewalk.

When more than four inches of snow are expected to accumulate, the City helps clear snow from more than 800 miles of sidewalks that are at least five feet in width. Rochester is one of the very few cities in the country that plows any of its sidewalks.

When three inches or more of new snow have fallen, City crews plow major and minor arterial streets, and contractors plow residential streets. Main streets (arterials) are continually plowed during snowfall, and arterials and certain roadways (near schools, and on bus routes, bridges, hills, etc.) are treated with salt. The City utilizes more than 20,000 tons of salt each winter season.

For plowing crews to operate efficiently, it is crucial that motorists obey all parking signs and winter parking restrictions. Just one car parked on the wrong side of a street can impede snowplows from moving snow safely out of the way.

Residents can find out when their street will be plowed by checking the City’s PlowTrax web page at www.CityofRochester.gov/plowtrax. PlowTrax is updated every five minutes to reflect the progress of City plows. 

Mayor Evans also cautioned motorists about the risks of driving too fast on snowy and icy roads.

“We must adjust our driving behaviors in the wintertime -- or risk endangering the lives of those who walk or take the bus,” said Mayor Evans. “Slow down, don’t follow too close, and give yourself room to stop. Give plows and salt trucks lots of room to operate. And be sure to brush accumulated snow off your car to ensure visibility and safety for you and other drivers.”

During weather events, local 911 and 311 call centers experience high call volume. Citizens are reminded to call 911 only for police, fire or ambulance services. Call 311 for questions about City services. 

For more information on the City’s snow removal policies and procedures, visit: www.CityofRochester.Gov/rocsnow.