Our winters can be extremely challenging when sidewalks are not cleared of snow and ice. Not only is cleaning the sidewalk an ordinance in Presque Isle, it is our shared responsibility to have an inviting, walkable downtown the whole year round.
Many people rely on walking as their primary means to get around the city and the snow and ice accumulation has prevented some from visiting the downtown area. It is especially difficult for people with disabilities, seniors, and children to walk safely. We are all pedestrians at some point and we can all benefit from a clean sidewalk.
Please help us make the downtown a safe place to walk this winter. Help the city promote a safe pedestrian environment and take responsibility by cleaning snow and ice from the sidewalks.
Who is responsible for clearing the snow and ice from downtown sidewalks?
While Public Works performs limited snow removal during the early morning hours and snow hauling on an as-needed basis, it is the property owner’s legal responsibility according to Chapter 24 of the City ordinances.
How long do I have to clear the sidewalks?
The ordinance states: “within 12 hours of daylight after the snow shall cease to fall or be formed and with reasonable diligence at all other times, keep the sidewalks and/or walkways abutting their respective places cleared of snow and/or ice, so that such sidewalks and/or walkways may be safely used by pedestrian traffic.
What is the best way to remove snow from the sidewalk?
– Remove snow from sidewalks adjacent to your property as soon as possible to prevent snow and ice from adhering to the sidewalk.
– Use salt to remove ice to prevent slips and falls.
– Push snow to the curb, but leave it on the edge of the sidewalk.
– Do not push snow into the parking spaces, street or alleyway.
– Do not cover the crosswalks with snow.
How can I report locations that do not clear their sidewalks?
Contact the Code Enforcement Officer, George Howe at 760-2770 or ghowe@presqueisleme.us. Any abutting owner or tenant in control who fails to comply is subject to a fine of not less than $35 nor more than $100 for each offense.
Deputy Public Works Director Chris Perkins can be contacted at 764-2560 or via email at cperkins@presqueisleme.us.
