When winter weather hits, New Hope Public Works is dedicated to ensuring that roads are cleared of snow and ice, and are safe for travel. To help support the efficient clearing of city infrastructure and prepare yourself for the inevitable snow and ice, here are some winter reminders.
SNOW EMERGENCIES
A snowfall of two inches or more, or warranting conditions, triggers a snow emergency. When a snow emergency is declared, parking is prohibited on city streets and may not resume until the road has been plowed from curb to curb. Cars remaining on the street during a snow emergency will be ticketed and towed. New Hope communicates snow emergencies via local media, the CodeRED notification system (sign up to receive notifications at
newhopemn.gov/codered) and the city's digital signage, website and social media. Parking is prohibited on New Hope city streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. year-round, regardless of snow emergency status.
SNOWPLOW SAFETY
When driving, slow down and give snowplows plenty of space. Drivers have a limited field of vision and cannot see tailgating vehicles. Additionally, plows frequently back up or turn unexpectedly. Be patient. Snowplows travel slowly because it's the most effective way to clear the roadway. Warn children about the dangers of playing in snowbanks made by the plows. Plow drivers will continue to clear snow in the days following a significant snow event and cannot see children playing in the snowbanks. Also, the additional weight of snow can cause forts to collapse, posing a severe risk.
SIDEWALKS AND HYDRANTS
Many of our neighbors rely on sidewalks to travel to their destinations. Uncleared sidewalks make travel difficult and dangerous for pedestrians, including those who have limited mobility. It is the responsibility of residents and business owners to clear snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property. Snow must be removed from sidewalks within 12 hours of snowfall. The West Metro Fire-Rescue District encourages residents to shovel out fire hydrants on/near their property. Keeping hydrants clear of snow reduces firefighters' time to access a hydrant when needed.
TRASH AND RECYCLING BINS
Residents are reminded to keep trash and recycling bins off of the street. Not only does this make it easier for plows to clear the road from curb to curb, but the force of the snow coming off the plow blade can easily topple bins, creating an unpleasant mess.
MOVING SNOW
Don't shovel or plow snow into the street, across the street or onto an adjacent neighbor's property. Moving snow and ice onto a sidewalk or into or across a roadway is unlawful.
Questions or concerns about snow removal may be directed to New Hope Public Works at 763.592.6777.