Snow removal operations are now in full swing in many parts of the city.
The City of Toronto began its snow removal operations last night to improve safety and ensure roads are safe and passable. Priority will be given to designated snow and streetcar routes, arterial roads and local roads where necessary to ensure emergency vehicle access.
Last night, snow removal began on the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway and will continue through today and into the evening. Snow removal also began in selected areas in North York and on St. Clair Avenue along with locations in the downtown. Snow removal is beginning on Bloor Street overnight. School safety zones and transit shelters are also priority areas for snow removal.
The City’s snow removal plan involves dozens of crews using front-end-loaders and dump trucks to collect snow and remove it to the City’s network of five snow storage sites. Crews will place temporary signage around pending snow removal operations that prohibit parking on the road until snow removal has been completed and the signs are removed.
Snow removal operations occur 24/7. Road users should keep a safe distance from snow removal crews and equipment.
Monday’s major winter storm dropped approximately 55 cm of snowfall across Toronto in 16 hours. Salting and plowing on major roads concluded yesterday, and City crews are continuing to clear the snow from local roads, sidewalks and separated bike lanes. Snow clearing crews continue to work closely with emergency service providers, including Police, Fire, Paramedics and the Emergency Operations Centre, to ensure emergency vehicles and their facilities receive the snow clearing they require to deliver their services.
Starting this morning, requests for snow clearing of streets, sidewalks or driveway windrows that were missed will be accepted by 311. Residents can create a service request by phone or online at Toronto.ca/311. Crews are also actively patrolling and identifying areas that may have been missed and prioritizing them for clearing.
The City has extended the major snow storm condition currently in effect until all snow clearing and removal operations are complete. Parking on roads designated as snow routes is prohibited for a 72-hour period when a major snow storm condition is declared. This will allow for the snow removal of windrows and snow banks left by the City’s snow plows, which can restrict traffic flow, interfere with pedestrians and parking, and obstruct sightlines.
Designated snow routes are primarily located in the downtown core and include all streetcar routes. All snow routes are clearly signed. Parking on a designated snow route during a major snow event is subject to a fine of up to $200.
Toronto has a comprehensive snow and ice response plan that prioritizes the safety and movement of residents above all else. More information is available on the City’s Winter Maintenance webpage.
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