Richmond Hill Hopes to Avoid Last Year’s Sidewalk Snow Nightmare
RICHMOND HILL, ON—Following a winter marred by resident complaints and safety concerns over uncleared sidewalks, the City of Richmond Hill is implementing stricter enforcement and enhanced operational strategies to ensure a dramatically smoother and safer winter season for pedestrians. City officials are promising that the chaotic scenes of last year—where icy, snow-piled footpaths left many residents, especially seniors and parents with strollers, navigating roadways—will not be repeated.
The core message this year is clear: Cooperation is key, and compliance is mandatory.
The City has significantly ramped up its commitment to both road salting and sidewalk salting/plowing operations, running them concurrently and consistently during and after snow events. However, the success of these operations hinges on resident participation, particularly in the immediate aftermath of a snowfall.
A City spokesperson released a firm but polite directive: “Please keep roads and sidewalks clear of parked cars.” Vehicles left on the street or encroaching on sidewalks severely hamper the efficiency and effectiveness of the municipal snow-clearing equipment, leading to the patchy, delayed service that frustrated residents last year. Officials confirmed that ticketing and towing will be used more readily to ensure clear access for plows.
Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed about ongoing operations and street-clearing advisories by subscribing to the City’s dedicated winter updates. “Don’t get caught unaware,” the spokesperson advised.
To receive real-time notifications you can subscribe at RichmondHill.ca/WinterUpdates. That will help the City keep Richmond Hill moving smoothly this winter.