From the City of Madison-
The City of Madison has declared a snow emergency. This means alternate side parking restrictions will be in effect in the downtown/isthmus snow emergency zone as well as the rest of the City of Madison. This snow emergency will remain in effect until 7 a.m. on Wednesday, January 17.
The Streets Division crews along with heavy equipment contractors will begin plowing all city streets this evening. We expect plowing operations to start around 8pm on January 15 and it will take 12 to 14 hours for all streets to be cleared. Streets Division crews will maintain the city salt routes until switching to plowing residential areas. The combined plow force of the Streets Division and heavy equipment contractors will be approximately 150 pieces of equipment.
Madison residents are asked to remove all vehicles and trailers from the street if possible. Fewer obstacles in the road means crews the plowing operations will be safer, faster, and more complete.
Since a bulk of the plowing operation will occur overnight, residents are reminded that they may need to give themselves a few extra minutes in the morning to clear their driveway apron from snow prior to their Tuesday morning commutes.
While we hope to have the snow plowed from all City of Madison streets by the start of the Tuesday commute, it is probable our crews will still be out plowing at that time. Be sure to give snowplow operators plenty of space as they work to make the roads safe.Also, if you are on the roads during the plow operations this evening, it is common to encounter temporary windrows blocking side streets as crews loop through neighborhoods plowing the snow back to the curb.
In general, everyone is encouraged to make good choices when on the roads. Plan to need extra travel time to get to your destination tonight and Tuesday morning as conditions may be slicks in parts. Drive slow. Brake early. Be cautious, alert, and patient. Madison residents can get complete snow emergency information, including information related to refuse, recycling, and Christmas tree collections.