It's Time to Review Inver Grove Heights' Winter Policies, Guidelines

With the possibility of the first measurable snowfall of the season in the forecast for this weekend, it’s a prime opportunity review Inver Grove Heights’ winter regulations and guidelines.

The following is from the city’s website:

PARKING OVERVIEW
Parking on any street or highway within the city is prohibited from Nov. 1 through April 1 between the hours of 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. Warning notices will be issued beginning Oct. 15. On Nov. 1, any vehicle found in violation will be tagged and/or towed to the impound lot.

PLOW DAMAGE OVERVIEW
• The city does not assume liability for damages to obstacles in the road right-of-way (irrigation heads, landscaping, etc.). If possible, remove these obstacles from the right of way or mark them clearly to aid plow drivers.
• Mailboxes are repaired or replaced only if the plow makes direct contact (sometimes snow from the plow can dislodge the box from the post or bend a weak post). Make sure your mailbox post is solid and securely fastened to the box.
• Often, plow drivers literally "feel" their way along streets because of conditions, and regrettably lawns are cut up. If this happens to you, please report it to the Street Maintenance Department at (651) 450 2579. Damages are repaired each spring with black dirt and seed or sod.

SNOW REMOVAL FACTS
• A fully loaded snowplow truck with sand and salt weighs between 30,000 and 56,000 pounds.
• The same table salt we use on food is used to melt snow and ice.
• Approximately 6500 tons of salt and sand were used on city streets during the 2006-07 winter season Approximately 135 miles of roadway, over 200 cul-de-sacs, 30 miles of sidewalks and seven city parking lots are plowed with each snowfall over four inches.
• The city has seven snow removal routes. Main thoroughfares that link state and/or county roads together have priority in snow removal/sanding to permit access by emergency vehicles and life support services.
• A minimum three-foot clear space around the circumference of a fire hydrant will reduce the time it takes firefighters to hook up hoses if a fire occurs in your neighborhood.

ROAD SAFETY TIPS
• Snow plow trucks are generally slow moving. Speeds can range from 5 to 35 miles per hour. Never pass snow plow vehicles while they are plowing.
• Keep your distance from trucks spreading sand.
• Stay away from the end of a driveway when a snowplow is approaching.
• Keep sleds and toys away from the street when they are not being used.
• Don't build snow forts in the snow piles on the boulevard.
• Stay out from behind snow removal vehicles. Frequent backing is necessary during plowing and visibility to the rear is limited.
• Keep garbage cans up in the driveway if it snows on garbage collection day. 

Click here to read more winter-related information.