Release: Snow is coming –shovel your sidewalks to improve access and safety

Snow is coming –shovel your sidewalks to improve access and safety

St. Paul Smart Trips and the City of Saint Paul stress importance of clearing sidewalks, provide resources to spread the word

St. Paul Smart Trips and the City of Saint Paul remind residents that they are required to shovel their sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. Clearing walkways is the law for all those with property bordering public sidewalks.

Residents can help educate neighbors and promote the shoveling ordinance by distributing doorhanger reminders about clearing sidewalks. The doorhangers are provided by St. Paul Smart Trips and the City of Saint Paul and are available at multiple locations, as well as online at www.smart-trips.org/sidewalks.

“An un-shoveled sidewalk is a huge safety hazard, as well as an obstacle for pedestrians and transit riders,” said St. Paul Smart Trips Executive Director Jessica Treat. “Uncleared and icy sidewalks are especially treacherous for the elderly and disabled, many of whom need safe walkways to access transportation options.”

Unfortunately, snow-packed sidewalks are not uncommon in Saint Paul.

“Last winter, we fielded 4,115 complaints about unshoveled sidewalks, expending staff time and resources,” said Ward 4 City Councilmember Russ Stark. “We need everyone’s help to make sure we have safe, clear sidewalks for everyone who lives and works in St. Paul.”

The City ordinance requires property owners bordering public sidewalks to shovel sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. The full width of the sidewalk must be cleared, as well as sidewalk corners and curb ramps for corner lots. If a sidewalk is not cleared and a complaint is filed, residents will be notified by the City. If the problem isn’t fixed, the City will clear the sidewalk and charge the property owner. The City also requests neighbors’ assistance in shoveling out fire hydrants to make it easier for first responders to access.

For more information about sidewalks and where to get doorhangers (or download them), visit www.smart-trips.org/sidewalks Complaints may be issued after the 24-hour window allowed after a snowfall by calling the City’s information and complaint line at 651-266-8989 or visiting the website at www.stpaul.gov/dsi .

St. Paul Smart Trips is a nonprofit organization that improves access and mobility for those who travel in and around St. Paul.

Media Contacts:  
Robert Humphrey, Department of Safety and Inspections 
robert.humphrey@ci.stpaul.mn.us, 651-266-8953

Mary Heer-Forsberg, St. Paul Smart Trips Marketing and Communications Director 
mary@smart-trips.org , 651-224-8555 x23