City declares 'significant weather event,' urges drivers to avoid street parking

The city has declared a "significant weather event" due to an incoming snowstorm and is urging Sault drivers to avoid parking on the street during the daytime to give crews a chance to clear the roads.

The city said the winter parking bylaw remains in effect, prohibiting street parking between midnight and 6 a.m. However the city asked drivers not to park on the street during the day or impede sidewalks so snowplows can do their work.

Residents were also asked to put their garbage and recycling out at the curb on the morning of pickup rather than the night before.

The city says main and collector roads will be cleared first.

You can find more details in the full news release from the city: 

The City of Sault Ste. Marie has declared a significant weather event with respect to hazardous winter storm conditions continuing until further notice. 

Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Sault Ste. Marie and area with 15 to 20 cm of snowfall expected today into Wednesday morning. Reduced visibility in areas of heavy snow and local blowing snow with hazardous travel conditions.

Public Works work diligently during winter events, but it may take longer than normal to ensure public safety and that the roadways, sidewalks, and transit bus stops meet normal maintenance standards.

Public Works monitors the weather and patrols the roadways to deploy all available crews to address any snow and ice accumulation. During a winter event, all roads and sidewalks maintained by the city are considered to be in a “state of repair”.

Snow will be cleared first from the main and collector roadways. The clearing of residential areas and designated sidewalks will be delayed until the main roadways and collector roads are cleared and safe.

Sidewalks should not be blocked at any time to facilitate snow removal. Residents are reminded that the snow plowed to the end of their driveway during a significant snow event is their responsibility and may be more than usual.

Do not place garbage and recycling carts out the night before collection as this causes issues with snow plowing and snow removal. Garbage and recycling carts should be placed curbside before 7 a.m. the morning of the designated collection day.

Motorists should drive according to the conditions and allow space for heavy equipment operators to clear and sand roadways safely and efficiently.

The parking bylaw remains in effect with motorists not permitted to park on city streets during the winter months between midnight and 6 a.m. however, during a winter event, motorists should not park on city streets or impede sidewalks during the day to assist in the efficiency of snow removal.

Transit Services reminds customers to expect delays because of heavy snowfall.

Updates will be posted to the City’s website and social media sites as required. Thank you for your cooperation.