As a proper winter snowfall seems only days away, many residents are getting seasonal tires changed and tuning various snow removal machines.

But what are the city’s policies and procedures for clearing streets and sidewalks.

Here’s what you need to know:

When will my street get plowed?

The city will plow major streets and arteries first, between 2am – 7am. Then after 9am secondary and tertiary roads will be cleared.

What about street parking?

The City of Thunder Bay uses calendar parking during the winter months. This allows plow operators to clear local streets more efficiently and effectively. More on calendar parking can be read here.

Is sand or salt used on roads/sidewalks?

That depends on the temperature. According to Manager of Roads, Engineering and Operations Brad Adams, salt becomes ineffective once temps hit below -10 degrees Celsius.

Who’s going to clean my side walk?

Sidewalk plows will be by to remove snow and apply sand as friction for pedestrians.

The City of Thunder Bay has more information regarding their winter maintenance, you can read more about it here.