The City of Peterborough has declared a Significant Weather Event following a winter storm that brought heavy snowfall to the region.
The declaration took effect Monday, after snowfall that began Sunday continued into the early morning hours, leading to narrowed travel lanes, reduced bike lane widths and sidewalks requiring mechanical snow removal or blower assistance.
City officials say Public Works crews are actively responding through a prioritized winter maintenance plan. Under Ontario Regulation 239/02 of the Municipal Act, a Significant Weather Event allows municipalities to temporarily suspend standard winter maintenance timelines while crews address hazardous conditions.
During the declaration, residents are advised to use caution, as normal service levels for road, sidewalk and bike lane maintenance may not be met.
The City has deployed 18 plow trucks, 11 sidewalk plows, two graders, seven loaders and backhoes, and four light sanding units. Crews are working to maintain 1,028 kilometres of roads, 412 kilometres of sidewalks, 44 kilometres of trails, 29 municipal parking lots and 650 bus stops.
Once clearing operations are complete, snow removal will begin at approximately 250 locations, including cul-de-sacs, dead ends and wide corners, to restore full travel and pedestrian access.
Residents are asked to give snow-clearing crews space to work safely and efficiently. Peterborough Transit may adjust service levels, including the use of designated snow routes, as conditions warrant.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier)
