Snow & Ice Pilot in First Ward

In 2011 the City of Minneapolis Public Works Department, in cooperation with the Pedestrian Advisory Committee, examined the City’s sidewalk snow and ice removal procedures and determined that more needed to be done to ensure effective snow and ice clearance for pedestrians. Currently, if property owners fail to clear their sidewalks, there’s an average of 7 days between first and second inspections, before sidewalks are cleared by City staff. This winter Public Works will test the use of a private contractor for snow clearance. The pilot program will be undertaken in sections of Northeast and South Minneapolis; it will include the portion of Ward 1 north of Lowry, encompassing Audubon Park, Waite Park, Columbia Park and much of Marshall Terrace. Snow shoveling rules remain in place. Ordinance requires that residential property owners clear sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of a snowfall and within 4 hours for apartments and commercial buildings. The City also offers free sand for sidewalks. Sand can be picked up 24 hours a day at the Public Works Maintenance Facility at 1809 Washington St NE (bring your own pail and shovel). Are there neighbors on your street who are elderly, have a disability or may have a hard time shoveling for any reason? Work with your neighbors to give a hand and ensure your entire block is safe and accessible to all.