Winter Operations & Emergency Response Plan

It is the intent of this policy to provide a written standard operating guide for the employees of the Town of Richmond Public Works to follow during a winter event, and to establish best management practices to ensure the public roads under the control of the Town of Richmond are kept to an acceptable level during winter months.

It should be recognized that planning for winter storms can be difficult. The variations in rate of snowfall, moisture content, time of the day, wind velocity, and local topography make each event unique.

Goals

The goals of the plan are as follows:

• Establish plow routes and prioritize which roads will be plowed or sanded based on traffic volume, hills and type of occupancy.
• Provide emergency sanding for the Police Department, Fire Department, medical services, and school buses, as needed.
• Have local town roads in a safe and passable condition within a four to five hour period after precipitation has ceased.

Level of Service

The Town of Richmond does not have a bare road policy; Plowing and sanding operations are intended to provide the prudent motorist with reasonably safe driving conditions. The motorist will need to drive to the conditions that are present and limit unnecessary trips.

Helpful Facts

The Public Works Department is also responsible for the snow removal at the Richmond Elementary School, the Richmond Police Station, Richmond Town Hall, and the Transfer Station.

Who to Call

Please do not call the Richmond Public Works Facility during a storm because the phones are not staffed. If you have an emergency or need assistance, call the Richmond Police Department.

Comments & Concerns

Remember, our employees work long hours during a winter storm event - they are there to assist you and they do an outstanding job keeping you safe. Comments and concerns are welcome and will be handled during normal business hours. Thank you in advance for your patience and support.