Saint John says it could take weeks to clear ice from streets, sidewalks

The City of Saint John says it could take weeks to clean snow off the sidewalks.

The City of Saint John says it will take several days, and possibly even weeks, for the ice that’s covering streets and sidewalks to be fully removed or melt following last weekend’s storm.

“We understand many of you are feeling frustrated after this weekend’s severe snow and ice storm, and we want to assure you that City crews are actively working to address the aftermath,” said the city in a statement Tuesday.

Saint John says all available equipment is salting and sanding roads and sidewalks Tuesday and clearing as much snow and ice as possible.

It notes salt works best when temperatures are around -10 C or higher. According to Environment Canada, the temperature in Saint John was -11 C, or -23 with the wind chill, Tuesday morning. The city says it uses a salt-sand in frigid temperatures.

“Sidewalks are a particular challenge for us. With the heavier equipment we use for roadways, they can get a really good amount of downforce and get down through the ice and of course, the vehicles help churned up that material,” said Tim O’Reilly, director of Saint John Public Works.

“The problem on the sidewalks is much smaller equipment and obviously you don’t have the same vehicle action.”

Saint John is urging residents to exercise caution on roads, sidewalks and park trails, which remain icy. It also suggests “wearing appropriate footwear with grippers.”

Several roads that were closed due to flooding have since reopened.

The south-central peninsula parking ban was lifted at 7 a.m. Tuesday. However, street-by-street parking bans are expected in the coming days.

“If you can avoid parking on the streets while crews work to clear the areas, it is appreciated, especially where parking bans are called or generally where parking is not permitted,” said the city in its statement.

“Thank you for your patience as we work hard to ensure the safety of our community.”

Meanwhile, Saint John says its customer service centre is experiencing “high call volumes” and it may take longer to address inquiries.

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