Valparaiso's Department of Public Works is postponing trash and recycling services each day, for the week of Feb. 2-6 in order to concentrate on snow removal efforts. The delay means that Monday's trash will be picked up on Tuesday; Tuesday's trash will be picked up on Wednesday; Wednesday's on Thursday; Thursday's on Friday. The regular schedule will resume on Monday, Feb. 90.
"Our plows have been out since the snow began on Saturday evening. This is a very heavy, wet snow that continues to fall. The wind is further compounding efforts to keep streets clear," said Matt Evans, Director of Public Works. "For maximum safety, we're focusing on main roads and emergency routes. Avoid unnecessary travel as we work to clear more than 150 miles of roadway and 134 cul-de-sacs. We currently have 19 pieces of equipment on the street performing snow removal, including pay loaders, plow trucks, and pick up trucks," he said.
As a reminder of the city's snow policy,
Please understand that plows cannot clear snow from residents' driveways. Snow from the roadway is pushed from the center to the edges and Public Works cannot clear snow from driveways and still maintain safety on all roadways. Homeowners should not place snow cleared from their driveways back into the street.
City Code also prohibits parking on the street when snow is in excess of two inches until streets have been cleared. Please refer to City Ordinances 72.51 and 72.53.
This information is also available on the city's web site at www.valpo.us. Click on "Public Works" and then "Snow Response." City officials remind drivers to slow down as roads are snow packed and slippery in spots.. Residents are encouraged to report dangerous slick spots by phoning Public Works during business hours (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at 462-4612 or e-mailing publicworks@valpo.us after hours.