City of Owen Sound Shifting to Overnight Excess Snow Removal Due to Safety Concerns

In response to heightened safety concerns, the City of Owen Sound is altering its strategy for excess snow removal in the downtown River District to nighttime operations. Beginning in the late evening of Sunday, March 2, residents are reminded to remove vehicles from downtown streets to avoid service disruptions.

The City had begun daytime snow removal operations, intending to implement rolling road closures block by block. Operations have pivoted to reduce the potential of conflicts between active pedestrian use and the work in progress.  Recognizing the importance of maximizing safety and accessibility while minimizing daytime disruption, the previously scheduled road closure in the River District on Thursday morning has been cancelled.

Operations will proceed with the same commitment to thoroughness and efficiency, ensuring accumulated snow is cleared and transported to designated snow disposal sites. As always, this work exceeds the routine winter maintenance of plowing streets and sidewalks and will ensure that roads and walkways remain clear for people, vehicles and emergency response.

Vehicles parked in affected areas during these overnight operations must be removed to allow the snow removal equipment unobstructed access. Winter overnight parking restrictions remain in effect, and any vehicles interfering with snow removal may be towed at the owner’s expense.

It is crucial for the safety and efficiency of this operation that traffic does not enter the work area.  Signage will indicate where snow-clearing operations are taking place, and drivers and pedestrians are asked to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

For more information, please contact Lara Widdifield, Director of Public Works and Engineering, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1201 or email lwiddifield@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

• The public is asked to avoid active snow-clearing areas in the interest of safety
• Excess snow removal in the River District will begin late evening on Sunday, March 2.
• Public Works staff are on the road 24/7 on three shifts throughout winter control to ensure public safety.
• To date, the City has already received over 400 cm of snow this season, 122 per cent of the total annual average.

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