With yet another wintery blast to end 2016, a reminder to residents and businesses in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows to clear public walkways in front of their properties.
Various levels of government are required to clear major roadways after snowfall.
Lougheed Highway and the Golden Ears Bridge are maintained by provincial highways and TransLink contractors. They work continuously while snow is falling.
The city clears main routes and single access points to neighbourhoods. Heavy equipment, plows and salting trucks are dispatched into six zones as snow begins falling.
Maple Ridge staff are responsible for keeping access to key civic buildings clear.
But strata associations, schools and individual property owners – residential and business – are all responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks and building entrances, according to a municipal bylaw.
That is to be done as soon as possible after a snowfall, and no later than 10 a.m.
Some have forgotten that responsibly, ignored it, or are unable to perform the task as some sidewalks are still covered in snow and ice from previous occurances.
The city bylaw suggests shovelling to the left side of a driveway as you face it. This gives a better sight-line for backing out vehicles and prevents the shoveled snow from being plowed back into the area. Also, snow accumulation along curbs can result in large puddles when it starts to melt, preventing water from easily flowing into storm sewers.
If clearing snow for an apartment or business, make sure that you clear a path wide enough for visitors or residents with mobility challenges.
Look at the sidewalk and make sure that a wheelchair could comfortably fit in the cleared pathway.
The city has a Snow Angel program, which promotes assisting the elderly or those with mobility or health issues with snow removal.
All it takes is a little time and effort to be a good neighbour.
– Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News