The City of Valparaiso is preparing for winter weather and reintroducing a winter event priority map, indicating priority streets, neighborhoods and cul-de sacs. “During inclement weather, our top priority is the safety of our community. Our team is prepared and has a proven plan for snow removal. We thank residents and drivers for their patience and remind everyone to slow down during winter weather events,” said Steve Poulos, Valparaiso City Services Director.
While winter snow accumulation patterns have adjusted over the last 5 years during the months of January and February, Valparaiso City Services is continually monitoring the weather for snow, sleet, ice and cold temperatures that impact public safety and transportation.
The winter event priority map is available at: tinyurl.com/ValpoWeather. Valparaiso reminds residents of the following procedures in winter weather events:
Per City Ordinance 72.04, please remove vehicles from City streets when there is two or more inches of snow. If we are to meet our standard or curb all of our streets within a timely fashion, it is nearly impossible to remove snow from the streets when vehicles are lining the curb. Please park vehicles in garages, driveways, or parking lots until the streets are cleared of snow.
Per City Ordinance 72.53, please do not push snow into the roads for your safety and the safety of others. The plowing process inevitably results in some snow being pushed back into already cleared driveways. (Please note that Public Works will not remove snow from driveway entrances.) To reduce the chance of this happening and creating more work for residents, Public Works recommends that residents clear an open area to the left of your driveway (as you look at the street from your door). This open area gives the street snow a place to land without blocking driveways. Please see the diagram below for more information:
During winter weather events, main thoroughfares and emergency routes will be cleared first and will remain the focus in overnight hours. Side streets, neighborhoods, and cul-de-sacs will be cleared once the emergency routes are safe to travel.
Keep an eye on neighbors, particularly seniors and others who may have difficulty clearing snow or accessing help. The Valparaiso Police Department offers a Contact Assistance Referral Program (CARE) to check on residents with special needs when the weather is severe. To register yourself or a loved one, contact Natalie Kasberger nkasberger@valpopd.com or 219-462-2135.