Town of Ponoka snow and ice control operations began on Monday, Jan. 25, following the snow that fell over the weekend. Crews have been busy clearing snow on priority routes and sanding and salting intersections as needed. Priority routes are designated based on the following criteria:
- Emergency services routes;
- School bus routes;
- Traffic volume (pedestrians and vehicles);
- Road classification; and
- Special conditions (roadway geometry and terrain, drift exposure, drainage, etc.)
Sidewalks, trails and outdoor skating venues
Town crews have also been busy clearing snow and sanding and salting sidewalks adjacent to Town-owned properties, as well as throughout the river valley walking trails and pathways in Town parks. Crews have also cleared snow from the Centennial Park skating trail, the Downtown Skating Plaza, the Outdoor Rink at the Ponoka Arena Complex and from park furniture to allow citizens to fully enjoy Ponoka’s many outdoor recreation facilities this winter.
To report an icy intersection or an icy, snow-covered sidewalk that may need attention, please contact the Town at 403-783-4431 or submit an online request on the Town website at www.ponoka.ca. Just click the E-Service button under ‘Online Service Request’ and fill out the form.
Residents asked to help clear snow and ice from sidewalks
The Town would like to thank all Ponoka residents who have been working hard to keep sidewalks that border their property clear of snow and ice. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, more and more people are getting exercise by going for walks in neighbourhoods throughout Ponoka. By keeping the sidewalks adjacent to your property clear of snow and ice, you are helping to protect the safety and well-being of your neighbours and fellow citizens in Ponoka.
Keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is also a requirement under the Town of Ponoka Community Standards Bylaw #387-17, which can result in warnings and fines when necessary.
Town winter operations crews work in conjunction with the Alberta Ministry of Transportation, which is responsible for snow and ice control on Highways 2A and 53 in Ponoka. Town of Ponoka snow and ice control operations are conducted according to the Town’s Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians and facilitate the operation of emergency services. The Town’s snow and ice control operations are kept within the Town’s annual snow removal budget which is based on average winter snowfall conditions over the past 10 years and is approved by Town Council.
To view the Town of Ponoka Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy and the Priority Routes map, please visit the Town website at www.ponoka.ca. Just click ‘Community’ on the top menu bar, then click ‘Seasonal Information’ on the side menu and scroll down the page to ‘Snow and Ice Control.’
– Submitted by the Town of Ponoka
