PHILADELPHIA – In response to today’s winter storm the Streets Department was well prepared to tackle the City’s first major snow event in two years. As forecasted, snow began hitting the roads approximately at 1pm. Crews immediately began a salting operation and as snow accumulations warranted began plowing. Crews are currently treating primary and secondary streets, bridges and residential streets in areas of high elevation. In preparation for the snow, crews brined roadways on Tuesday. A full deployment of additional crews and equipment is contingent upon additional snow accumulations.
To assist with snow operations, Sanitation crews are being diverted to snow duty and are mounting Sanitation trucks with plows. Therefore, all trash and recycling collections will be suspended for Thursday, December 17th. Residents whose normal trash day is Thursday must hold materials for Friday pick up and Friday’s materials will be collected on Saturday. Although crews are expected to resume collections on Friday, residents should expect delays as crews navigate in the snow. Delays are contingent on the severity and length of the storm. Residents are reminded the City’s six Sanitation Convenience Centers are open Monday through Saturday, 8a-6p. Visit www.philadelphiastreets.com for locations.
Our goal is to make roads passable and return the city back to normal operations as quickly as possible. City forces will continue snow operations until all conditions are safe for travel.
Reminders
- Do not shovel or plow snow into the street. This practice is illegal, unsafe and hinders snow operations.
- Clear a sidewalk path at least 36” wide (3ft) within 6 hours of the end of the storm.
- Clear snow from neighborhood sewer drains to allow melting snow to drain.
- Motorists should allow extra time, exercise patience and maintain safe driving distances.