Sidewalk snow removal

by Mark Dykes

When the flakes fall, we’ve got crews from the Town of Thermopolis and the Wyoming Department of Transportation out there making sure our streets and highways stay safe. But just as important is citizens’ diligence in making sure their sidewalks and drives are also clear of the snow.

Mayor’s Assistant Fred Crosby said according to Ordinance 7-513 of the Town Code, people must remove snow from their sidewalks within 72 of each snowfall. Not doing so could mean a fine of up to $750. The ordinance applies to commercial and residential property owners.

There are people with mobility issues who might not be able to clear their walks right away or at all, and Crosby said it’s nice to see church and community groups or neighbors who help these folks out.

There are several people who have four-wheelers with blades attached who are helping clear the walks, though Crosby said such drivers should try to push the snow onto their own lawns rather than out into the street. If a street has already been plowed, any additional snow might not get picked up and instead melt and turn to dangerous ice patches.

Whether we see a little snow or a lot, Crosby hopes everyone has a great winter.