The City of Ypsilanti has implemented changes to the snow removal policy. The changes were imposed by the State of Michigan’s new guidelines, reduced road funding and an increase operating costs.
The City of Ypsilanti’s snow removal guidelines are as follows:
Priority 1: State Trunklines (Michigan Avenue, N & S Hamilton, etc.)
Priority 2: Major Streets (N. Huron River Drive, Catherine, Perry, etc.)
Priority 3: Local Streets (Collegewood, Normal, N. Grove, Arnet, Armstrong, etc.)
Priority 4: City Parking Lots ( N & S Huron Lots, etc.)
Priority 5: City Maintained Alleys
Priority 1 and Priority 2 streets will be maintained under the new State of Michigan winter operations guidelines, with a goal of providing a pavement surface “generally bare of ice and snow” wide enough for one-wheel track in each direction. A “generally bare of ice and snow” pavement is defined as a travel lane surface that is free from drifts, snow ridges, and as much ice and snow pack as practical. It should not be confused with “dry pavement” or “bare pavement” which is essentially free of all ice, snow and any free moisture. This work may be accomplished using overtime as necessary during a winter storm event.
Clearing the pavement bare of ice and snow over its entire width will be accomplished as soon as reasonably possible after the winter storm event, without working overtime.
Priority 3 and Priority 4 areas will not be cleared of snow or ice on overtime unless there is an accumulation of 3 inches of snow or more and after Priority 1 and Priority 2 areas have been completed.
Priority 5 will be addressed after priorities 1, 2, 3 and 4 have been completed.
As a reminder, City Ordinance 94-136 states that no owner, manager or occupant shall remove ice or snow from sidewalks, parking lots, driveways and approaches and deposit such on public streets, alleys, or rights-of way. This applies to removal by manual or automated methods and especially applies to snow blowers which should be directed below range of street distance or should be pointed in opposite direction of street. Large accumulations of snow shall be placed so as to avoid vision obstruction for passing vehicles.
As you clear your driveways, it is suggested that snow be piled on the right side of the driveway, as you face the road. This will help minimize the amount of snow pushed back into your driveway.
It is also recommended that residents not place trash or recycling bins on the road or shoulder area.
As always, the safety and well being of our residents is our main focus. The City of Ypsilanti’s Public Services Department will continue to work diligently to provide safe roadways. If you have questions regarding our winter maintenance guidelines, please contact the Public Services Office at (734) 483-1421.
