The City of Kelowna says it’s ready for whatever winter throws our way. Environment Canada’s latest forecast calls for a chance of wet snow Thursday afternoon and snow Sunday and Monday. Director of Road Operations Andrew Schwerdtfeger says the city has finished transitioning its heavy equipment to winter use and has more than 20,000 tons of sand ready for the winter snow season. “And, a new snowmobile is ready for its first run, which is a game-changer for our business,” Schwerdtfeger said. “Our outgoing unit was over 30 years old and could not meet the demands of the job last year.” He says the new machine can fill up to 500 trucks an hour. “It’s going to be critical in removing the snow that’s starting to build up in areas where we don’t have adequate storage.” Residents are reminded that streets are being cleaned on a priority basis. High traffic roads such as Gordon Drive, Springfield, Glenmore and Rutland roads are given first priority. Second priority goes to collector roads such as Sutherland Avenue, Richter and Ethel Streets, bus routes and busy, steep roads. Residential roads are expected to be cleared and smoothed within 48 hours of a snow event, but officials are reminding those residents that it could take longer if crews have to prioritize one and two roads in case of additional snowfall. The city says there are steps residents can take to help with the snow removal process.
Move your car off the road when it starts snowing. It makes clearing snow easier, faster and more efficient Find out if you live on snow routes. During Snow Route warnings, on-street parking is prohibited on Academy Way, Black Mountain, Clifton/Magic Estates/Wilden, Mountain Dilworth, Kirschner Mountain, McKinley Beach and areas in South Mission Clear walkways in and around your property Help your neighbors, friends or family members who may have difficulty shoveling. Here is a Snow Angel who has given you a hand.
The city’s snow budget for 2022 is $2.2 million. Public works director Geert Bos says the city has about $560,000 of that budget left after spending more than $1.6 million in the first three months of the year.
He estimates it can cost $30,000 to $40,000 a night to clear the snow.
