Winter Sidewalk Safety
Your Role in Keeping Neighbors Safe
The Town offers a sidewalk clearing program for significant snowfalls, but even with this program in place, residents can make a real difference in keeping our community safe. Because snow and ice can pack down and freeze quickly, early clearing -- before foot traffic compacts the snow -- often produces the safest sidewalks.
1. The Town's Role
The Town activates its clearing program when snow reaches six inches or more. The Town also may decide to clear sidewalks if accumulations are less than six inches, if the snow is unusually heavy or unusual conditions prevail, such as an approaching hard freeze that can turn slush to ice. We have done this several times over the past few years. - Notification: We will announce via the Town Crier whether the Town program is active or if residents should clear their own walks.
- Limitations: With 20 miles of sidewalk to cover and limited contractor availability, it usually takes at least a full day to complete their task. Crews do not work overnight. If snow has already been compacted into ice, they may only be able to apply ice melt, leaving the sidewalk potentially unsafe.
- Icy Conditions: The Town will determine on a case-by-case basis whether to apply salt or sand during ice-only events.
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2. Resident Responsibilities - Clear Your Sidewalk: Residents are responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their homes within 24 hours after precipitation ends, unless the Town officially announces it will activate its sidewalk snow removal program.
- Consider Early Action: Even when the Town program is activated, we encourage you, if willing and able, to shovel early. Your early efforts can mean safer conditions sooner.
- Plan Ahead: If you will be traveling during the winter, please arrange for a neighbor or a private contractor to handle your sidewalk. Uncleared walks are most often the result of residents being away from home.
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3. Resources for Assistance If you need help clearing your sidewalk, please utilize these resources: - Town Teens: Hire a local student for snow shoveling. View the Town Teens list (login required) or contact the Town Office. We have just sent a Town Crier, asking teens to sign up for this winter season.
- Private Contracts: Consider a seasonal agreement with a landscaping company for guaranteed service.
- Be a Good Neighbor: If you are able, please help neighbors who may have mobility challenges or who you know are out of town.
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