Rawlins has approximately 85 miles of streets. For snow removal, they are divided into the above-described categories. Except for very unusual conditions or emergencies, streets or segments of streets are assigned to one of the prioritized categories. Under most conditions, priority 1, 2 and 3 streets will be kept open and maintained. When that is not possible, they will be dropped from the maintenance list in reverse order (Priority 3 streets will be dropped before priority 2 streets). The snow routes have been established so that regardless of which priorities are dropped, the remaining portions comprise a connected, continuous system.

Priority 4 streets may not receive regular winter maintenance. If snow accumulation completely blocks traffic movement, the priority 4 streets will be plowed as soon as possible. Equipment will be provided as necessary to respond to emergency situations.

When plowed snow either restricts or interferes with traffic, snow will be loaded and hauled to pre- determined storage sites. When possible, the majority of hauling will be done during off-peak traffic times.

Parking on streets may be temporarily restricted if parked vehicles interfere with through traffic, plowing, sanding, or snow removal operations.

It is illegal for private persons to place, dump, or push snow into city streets or rights-of-way from adjacent properties.

SNOW EMERGENCY:

What is it?

The City Manager has the authority to declare a snow emergency when snow conditions are such that normal snow operations are not able to keep the streets clear. During snow emergencies, a special "No Parking" ban goes into effect on selected City streets. This is the most effective way to provide access for effective snow control operations. Posted Snow Emergency Routes, main arteries and the central business district are plowed first.

The priority streets are the first plowed for the entire city, generally in a grid pattern. The Snow Emergency Route System was planned so very few residents have to go more than a few blocks to get to a plowed street. It also allows emergency vehicles to get within a few blocks of every residence. These are truly "emergency" routes to keep essential services functioning after a major snowfall or heavy drifting that could otherwise paralyze our city.

Other main streets are plowed immediately after Emergency Snow Routes are completed. School areas are plowed immediately after the Snow Emergency Routes are opened if possible.

Vehicles parked on a posted snow route during emergency conditions may be ticketed and towed at the owner's expense. In addition, plows may continue to work the area around parked vehicles, blocking them with piles of snow. Adherence to the Emergency Snow Route parking restriction is greatly appreciated.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Goals:

The City's principal goal during any snowstorm is to keep primary and collector streets open and safe for the motoring public. In addition to primary and collector streets, priority is given to: streets adjacent to schools, bus routes, police and fire stations; intersections with stop signs, hills, curves, and dangerous intersections on residential streets, All remaining residential streets will receive service only after the above priorities are treated and only when conditions warrant.

Procedures: When plowing is required, snow can only be piled in the center of the street or toward the curbs. Street width, parking, and other considerations determine which will be used in a given area. Opening of driveways is the responsibility of the property owner. The Department tries to keep this problem to a minimum. We ask the citizens of Rawlins to be patient and recognize that during blizzards, there is bound to be some temporary inconvenience.

PARKED OR ABANDONED VEHICLES

The City of Rawlins does have posted snow routes and will enforce Chapter 10.81 of the Rawlins Municipal Code: Whereas, any vehicle left unattended and that vehicle interferes with the free movement of vehicular traffic or proper street or highway maintenance, that vehicle may be ticketed, towed, and/or impounded.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Exercise extreme care when driving in inclement weather. Driving on snow-packed and icy roads requires your full attention and driving skills. A few basic guidelines to remember during winter driving are: