The City is not planning to stop clearing driveways at this time.
Where did this come from?
In June 2024, Council asked staff to prepare a report reviewing the Snow and Ice Control Policy. Council wanted to know how reducing some services would impact the budget, specifically:
- Ceasing to open residential driveways
- Increasing the minimum service level metrics by 2.5 centimeters
- Ceasing to clear snow from all roads on statutory holidays
The report explained that not opening driveways would save an estimated $250,000 per year. The total snow and ice control budget in 2024 was $10.3 million dollars. After receiving the report in November, Council did not ask staff to reduce snow and ice control service levels. Read the full report on our website to read more about what Council learned.
However, Council could direct staff to change the snow clearing policy at any time. If Council wanted to reduce taxes for residents, it is possible for them to cut services in any service area during budget meetings.
We encourage you to continue participating in City surveys, engagement opportunities, and Council meetings to let Council know what your priorities are and which services are most important to you. You can also email MayorandCouncil@princegeorge.ca at any time to share your feedback.
What are the current levels of service?
The Snow and Ice Control policy states: to accommodate snow storage in residential neighbourhoods, driveways will be opened to a maximum of eight meters.
During a snow event (more than 7.5 cm falls in 24 hours) or a heavy snowfall declaration (at least 20 cm falls in 24 hours), it will take snow crews longer than normal to open driveways.
Roads without a curb and gutter are primarily plowed with trucks and the City does not open driveways after truck plows. Crews may return with a loader and grader to widen and push back when time permits. Please be patient and know that we are working as quickly as possible to clear the roads for your safety.
Roads with a curb and gutter are plowed with a grader and loader combination. Loaders might be 20 to 30 minutes behind, depending on the number of driveways that need servicing in the neighbourhood.
If we missed opening your driveway, you can let us know by phoning the Service Centre at 311.