Track My Plow is back for another year of snow clearing

Now that winter has arrived, the City of Greater Sudbury says its staff and contractors are ready to keep the roads open.

“Weather conditions are closely monitored by municipal staff around-the-clock, seven days a week, using a customized weather service, Ontario Ministry of Transportation highway reports and data generated from local remote weather stations,” the city said in a news release.

“Staff regularly patrol municipal roads throughout the city to assess the need for plowing, sanding and salting.”

Curious where crews are deployed or about other city winter operations? Check out this handy chart that outlines where crews are and other relevant info.

“Please drive according to weather and road conditions. Exercise a high degree of caution around operating plows and give them space to clear the roads,” the city said in the news release. “The City will issue advisories as winter weather and snow events happen. Updates and information are posted via social media on X @greatersudbury) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/greatersudbury).”

Plow map

Last season, the city launched a service that allows residents to track the snowplows on an online map. The Track My Plow interactive tool is back for another season, providing almost real-time updates on service times for roads and sidewalks. Visit GreaterSudbury.ca/PlowMap to check it out.
The city also reminds drivers of their responsibilities when it comes to snowplows.

“A recent amendment to the Highway Traffic Act prohibits the improper passing of snowplows when they are working side-by-side on a multi-lane road or highway with a posted speed limit of 80 km/h or more,” the city said.
“Motorists may only pass a plow truck if a full lane is available to complete the manoeuvre safely. In order for a lane to be considered available, no part of a snowplow, including an attachment or blade, should overlap. A conviction would result in a fine between $150 to $1,000.”

All that said, the city also shared information on why it's never a good idea to pass a snow plow.

The city’s winter sidewalk maintenance pilot program has been extended for another season.

“Similar to how the downtown sidewalks are maintained each business day regardless of weather conditions, the additional sidewalk plow operators will maintain sidewalks within their respective maintenance sections on a rotational basis during business days,” the city said.

Overnight parking

Now that December has arrived, the city’s Overnight Parking Bylaw is in effect until March 31.

“During this time, parking is not permitted on any roadway, highway, laneway or side street within the city, between midnight and 7 a.m.” to allow for snow removal.
The city also asked drivers and pedestrians for patience and space when crews are out keeping roads and sidewalks open.

The city also reminded residents not to clear their driveway or sidewalk by pushing the snow out into the street, keeping on your own property. Also, garbage cans and recycling containers shouldn’t be left by the roadway or sidewalk, so plows can work safely.
And finally, much like garbage cans, portable basketball nets and hockey nets should be stored away from the roadway and shoulder of the road.