City of Boulder prepares for winter

The city prioritizes clearing emergency access routes, major arterial streets, access to hospitals, schools, transit and critical infrastructure.

As the temperature begins to drop, the city’s Transportation and Mobility Department is getting ready for the upcoming winter season.

During snow and ice events, the city prioritizes clearing emergency access routes, major arterial streets, access to hospitals, schools, transit and critical infrastructure, as well as neighborhood streets with steep slopes and the city’s multi-use path system for walking and bicycling. Like other Front Range communities, the city does not typically plow side and residential streets since most snow usually melts within a day or two and because side and residential street plowing would significantly increase costs, impacting other high-priority services.

Community members should be aware that normal travel conditions cannot always be maintained during snow and ice events. Those that must travel during winter weather are encouraged to visit the city’s website to view live video of current road conditions at key intersections throughout the city.

“Our team works around the clock when it snows to keep the community safe,” said Transportation and Mobility Department Director Erika Vandenbrande. “It is important to remember that we are still in a pandemic situation. We ask that the community be understanding as we continue to navigate health protocols to keep our team safe.”

The city’s Shovel-a-Stop Program will continue this winter after a successful pilot last season. The program fosters a community approach to clearing snow and ice from bus stops, most of which are not a local government responsibility, to keep them accessible. Like most communities, city property owners are required to clear their sidewalks of snow and ice within 24 hours after snow stops. Additionally, residents and property owners are responsible for disposing of branches and other debris that falls on their property after storms. “It’s up to all of us to help keep our community safe during winter weather,” said Vandenbrande.

For more information about the city’s snow and ice program, including answers to frequently asked questions, visit the city’s website.

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