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CITY OF RAMSEY SNOW REMOVAL AND ICE CONTROL POLICY Introduction The control of snow and ice through quick and effective snowplowing ensures safe transportation for citizens, emergency vehicles, and the ongoing commercial activity in Ramsey. Due to the significant amount of public dollars spent on these services, it is the City's goal to manage and operate winter road maintenance in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Because timing is critical for snow and ice control, the City's goal is to achieve roads clear of snow in a reasonable time period. This is always dependent upon the type and amount of snow. The City cannot guarantee bare, dry pavement after each snowfall, or that streets will be totally free of ice or other driving hazards common to Minnesota winter conditions. The Ramsey Public Works Department is responsible for performing snow removal and ice control on City streets. Snowplowing Snowplowing begins after the accumulation of 2 inches of snow, requiring up to 8 hours of operations after a "normal" snowfall of 2 to 4 inches. During major snow accumulations, emergency plowing operations usually begin about 2:00 a.m., unless snow is still falling. In those situations, lead personnel will begin plowing as soon as possible so that primary arterial roadways are passable by moming "rush hours." The City is divided into six routes. Major collector streets are plowed first. Other streets are plowed in an order determined by the driver for the quickest and most practical way to open all roads. Cul-de-sacs and short, dead-end streets are divided into five routes and are plowed with different plows, adding speed and efficiency to the operation. Ice Control and Si~ndinv, Ice control consists of distributing a salt or salt/sand mixture when and where the Police and Public Works departments deem necessary. The City sands all main intersections, dangerous curves, and steep grades as needed to control traffic. As temperature determines the effectiveness of a salt/sand mixture, sanding will not be done on extremely cold days except in emergency situations. Some of the main intersections along State and County roads are sanded as they are plowed. Others are sanded after all roads are cleared of snow, because the sand is needed for ballast on the trucks. During ice storms when no plowing is occurring, intersections along the State and County roads are sanded first and all others immediately thereafter. Citizen Responsibilities Citizens play an important role in the effectiveness of snow removal operations. Parking is not allowed on streets after a snowfall of 2 inches. Cars parked on unplowed roads will be tagged and towed at the owner's expense. Driveway entrances must be cleared by the property owner. It is unlawful to shovel, blow, or plow snow or ice onto the street from private property. · Trash and recycling containers need to be accessible for pick-up but kept off the street to allow snow removal.