Big Idea

• The Street Maintenance crews are working to clear the roads
• They start with the main and major collector streets
• Roads are currently snow packed with heavy accumulation
• Read more...

Street crews work 24 hours a day to clear the roads.

UPDATE from Street Maintenance Superintendent Brian Scott: 

Plow crews are making good progress on the mains which are, at this hour almost cleared full width, and the major collectors as well. Crews will likely be able to begin work on the minor collectors, and even some residential streets during the overnight hours tonight and into tomorrow.

As with any winter storm, particularly one of this magnitude, it is important to clear all of the main arterial and major collector streets prior to working on the minor collector and residential streets. This allows for heaver traffic flows out of neighborhoods to safely travel without a significant risk of accidents due to snow packed and icy streets. Based on current weather forecasts, we feel that we will make good progress clearing residential streets through Thursday.

Additionally, beginning tomorrow, Wednesday January 27th, we will began removing snow from the downtown area with contracted help. This will create some impact to traffic in the area. Traffic will be directed with the help of Citizens On Patrol, so please be mindful of the work and obey the direction of these fine volunteers.

As a reminder, we are expecting very low temperatures overnight tonight extending well into the morning hours tomorrow. This will create icy conditions, even on streets that are cleared. This is due to snow melt entering, or crossing the roadway before the hard freeze, so please, if you must travel, do so with caution. 

As always, we appreciate your continued cooperation during this very challenging winter storm event.     

Clearing the snow can be an arduous task in the City of Prescott. There are a lot of roads of varying elevations throughout the city, and with a heavy storm, it can seem like three steps forward, two steps back.

The crews work around the clock in 12 hour shifts. They start with the main roads, and then tackle side roads. 

Brian Scott, the City of Prescott Street Maintenance Superintendent, provided an update this morning of their plan of attack.

"At this time, Street Maintenance crews are still working to clear and maintain the arterial and major collector streets. Crews will continue with this work until all mains and major collectors are passable and accumulating snowfall has stopped.

"At that time crews will move into minor collectors and residential streets. 

"Roads are currently snow packed, with accumulating snow still falling. This is making driving conditions very hazardous. Please do not travel unless you absolutely have to, and if so do so with extreme caution.”

If you really, really have to be on the roads today, here are some tips to help keep you safe:

• Clear all windows of your car, including the side and back windows.
• Also clear off the top of the car that might slide down and impair your vision.
• If you see a snow plow, give it plenty of room
• Take your time. Drive slowly and carefully.
• Allow yourself plenty of room to stop. Leave lots of space between you and other cars.