MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee’s Department of Public Works (DPW) outlines changes to city services during the February 12th winter storm.
Garbage and recycling services are cancelled for February 12 and suspension is expected for February 13th as between 40 and 60 garbage trucks and drivers will be assisting with residential street plowing during the storm. Milwaukee residents should still put out their carts on their scheduled collection day and return it once collection finishes. Plus, residents are encouraged to clear snow and ice around and on top of the garbage and recycling carts so carts can be rolled.
“We plan to address all main streets as the snow continues to come down. We’re expecting about one inch per hour between the hours of noon and six o’clock,” says Commissioner Jerrel Kruschke.
Salt trucks have been pre-treating residential streets starting early in the morning on February 12th, but once the snow starts, salt trucks with front-plow blades will take care of main streets first before moving onto the residential streets next. DPW reminds residents it can take 18-24 hours after the snow has stopped falling to plow all streets.
If the snowfall is heavy, plows only do one pass the first time through the residential streets to provide immediate access for cars, then plows would then return to finish to the curb.
DPW reminds drivers to drive cautiously, adjust speeds to meet road conditions, and give salt and plow trucks ample space on the road to ensure they can safely salt and clear streets.
There is no snow emergency declared for February 12. The city will decide on February 13th whether to declare the for parking once the snow has fallen. DPW reminds residents to follow posted parking signs and give salt and plow trucks room to do their work.
Recommendations from DPW:
- Please be patient and understanding, snow and ice operations take time, all streets will be cleared. It can take 24-48 hours to plow every street during larger snow events such as the one predicted currently.
- Drive carefully and plan your route to stay on main transportation routes as much as possible during snow and ice events.
- Only travel if absolutely necessary.
- Adjust driving for conditions by slowing down and providing more space for braking.
- Give salt and plow trucks space and stay back from the trucks salting or brining streets to ensure the product hits the streets instead of your car.
- Park legally and follow alternate side parking rules. DPW does a better job when parking rules are followed. Parking farther away from driveways, alleys and intersections allows our equipment to get through.
- Do not shovel, blow or plow snow back into the streets – this is considered litter and you may be subject to a citation.
- Shovel your sidewalk and corners within 24 hours after the snow has stopped falling, assist neighbors who need help.
- Clear the fire hydrant near your property of snow and ice.
- Clear snow and ice around and on top of your garbage and recycling carts.
