SNOW EMERGENCY DECLARATION

The City of Pontiac has declared a SNOW EMERGENCY effective 10:00 PM Friday, January, 12, 2024, until 8:00 AM Monday, January 15, 2024.

During this time, compliance with the following is required by Ordinance Chapter 114 - Article VI SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTES:

• NO PARKING on Downtown Streets between 3:00 AM – 6:00 AM. This will be strictly enforced.

• NO PARKING on any SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTE.

• NO PARKING on EVEN SIDE OF THE STREET ON EVEN DAYS.

• NO PARKING on ODD SIDE OF THE STREET ON ODD DAYS.

Check the City’s Website www.pontiac.mi.us and Facebook for updates on Snow Emergency information. Please be patient with the Operations as this storm is expected to bring snow and plummeting temperatures. DPW must have all major streets clear before operations begin on Local Streets. Please stay safe in the next few days as the snow hits our doorsteps and check-in on the elderly or other vulnerable community members.

Residents urged to use extra caution when shoveling or plowing snow

Fast facts:

- Piling or depositing snow that obstructs vision is a violation of Michigan's Vehicle Code.

- Piling snow at the ends of driveways along highway shoulders and pushing snow across roads can create hazardous conditions.

- Keeping sidewalks clear is important to help people walk safely and access public transit.

As snow begins to pile up in parts of the City, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) is reminding residents living along city roads to be careful and follow the law as they plow or shovel snow. Two primary concerns are when residents and businesses pile snow at the ends of driveways along the highway shoulder, and when snow is pushed across the road, leaving snow or slush on the road surface.

Michigan Vehicle Code 257.677a and City Code (Chapter 102, article V. 102-223) prohibits "the obstruction of safety vision by removal or deposit of snow, ice, or slush." This includes the end of driveways, where banked snow can reduce visibility for vehicles trying to enter the roadway.

"Piling snow at the end of a driveway may be convenient, but makes it difficult for drivers to make sure it's safe to pull out onto the roadway, and tough for drivers to see other vehicles waiting to pull out". "Our crews work to keep the roadways clear and knock down snowbanks at intersections for motorist safety, and residents and business owners need to do the same at their driveways."

Trails of snow left on the pavement while plowing across the road also can cause problems. As temperatures change, slushy snow can become packed and icy, or refreeze in ridges of ice across the road.

"Careless plowing creates an added hazard to unsuspecting motorists and plow drivers".

It also is important to remember that City Code (Chapter 102, article V section 102-222) require residents and businesses to keep sidewalks clear of snow. This is important for pedestrians and those waiting for public transit.

"Winter can be a difficult time to get around for those on foot, so please make the extra effort to clear your sidewalks and help everyone stay mobile and safe.”