Though total accumulations have been only slightly more than three inches since the snow began falling late last month, according to the National Weather Service, the intermittent snowfalls have given the city an early opportunity to take its new snow removal policy out for a test drive.
The policy, which sets plowing priorities and varying levels of response for the Public Works Department, was adopted by the Shawano Common Council last month and is aimed at making sure the city is using its resources efficiently.
The policy lays out three levels of response, depending on the amount of snow that falls, with the city’s 60 miles of streets prioritized “based on function, traffic volume, and importance to the overall welfare of the community.”
The first level, Code Yellow, addresses snowfalls of less than one inch and generally doesn’t include any plowing at all, under the policy.
Mostly, Code Yellow calls for the use of sand and salt, but some intermittent plowing might be done near heavy traffic intersections if necessary.
The second level, Code Blue, goes into effect for snowfalls between one and two inches and calls for snow removal operations to commence for high volume, arterial routes that connect major sections of the city and provide access for fire, police, medical services, schools and commercial business.
Sand and salt, as well as some additional plowing, will also be done to address problem areas.
Medium volume and low-volume residential streets, as well as municipal parking facilities, are generally not covered under Code Blue.
The highest level, Code Red, goes into effect for any snowfall of more than two inches, or when drifting snow and icy conditions require it.
Code Red calls for Public Works staff to break into 11 plowing routes to cover high, medium and low-volume streets. Salt and sand can also be used at the plow driver’s discretion, depending on road conditions.
According to the policy, some of the responses can be changed to deal with particular weather conditions, but the new focus under the policy will be to maintain safe driving conditions rather than providing bare pavement.
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