Northwest Wayne News

In preparation for the upcoming winter storm, Mayor Michael Duggan declared a snow emergency on Feb. 1, in effect from midnight on Feb. 2 until further notice, according to a release on Feb.

The city has activated emergency snow routes in preparation for snowfall that is forecasted to be 12 to 16 inches by Friday morning. The Detroit Department of Public Works (DPW) is ready to plow and salt a total of 673 miles of major roads. They will be working with contractors to plow all of the city’s residential streets, amounting to 1,884 miles. DPW asked that all parked vehicles be removed from the streets to prepare for plowing.

“It could take approximately 36 hours to complete one full cycle of plowing,” said DPW Director Ron Brundidge. “Residents are asked to have patience as DPW works with staffing strategically and continuously to complete snow and ice removal during industry-wide driver shortage.”

Brundridge said that this is not only the first major storm of the year but also the first major winter storm where plows have to deal with 7,000 speed humps on residential streets. The city is using a three-level system for removing the snow depending on how much snow falls. When it is more than 6 inches, the city will initiate a policy to plow all streets.

For major roads, there will be 50 salt trucks and plows to clear 673 miles. About 100 drivers will alternate 12-hour shifts until roads are clear. Police stations, firehouses and Department of Transportation terminals will be continually plowed.

For side streets, the first citywide clearing was to begin Thursday at 6 a.m. and last until Friday at 6 p.m. Contractors have 36 hours to finish plowing and will be required to clear 16 feet. Crews will get 12 hours of required rest after completing side streets before possibly plowing from Saturday at 6 a.m. to Sunday at 6 p.m. if needed.

Businesses are reminded that when clearing their driveway they must either keep the snow on their property or have it taken away, otherwise, they will face a fine of up to $1,000. Businesses must also maintain their sidewalks to ensure safety for pedestrians.

The city is recommending residents stock up on essentials like food, water and batteries, and stay home through the duration of the storm. It is also recommended to keep blankets, a shovel, non-perishable food items and a phone charger in the car in the case of getting stuck or stranded. Drivers should also top off their gas tank and windshield fluid.