Hamilton’s General Manager of Public Works Carlyle Khan says City staff are working around the clock to clear snow following last weekend’s storm, which dropped 31.0 centimetres of snow on Saturday and Sunday.
The 31.0 cm was on top of the 13.2 cm that fell only two days prior on Wednesday and Thursday.
In an interview at 1:05 p.m. in the hallways of City Hall, Khan stated he is redeploying staff from various departments to assist with snow-clearing operations.
“I can tell you that I have redeployed Parks staff who do winter maintenance and clearing over to Roads to help.”
Khan says Parks staff are using ‘bobcats’ to help in places where the City “cannot get the big trucks” out to clear.
He says the City is working to ensure public safety and complete sidewalk clearing.
“The materials melting and freezing,” he said, making the work harder slower.
[Note: Khan was between meetings when interviewed.]
Staff Reaching Max Hours, Operations Moving to Overnight
Khan said more operations will occur at night, such as clearing sidewalks in the downtown and business improvement areas.
Crew are reaching their maximum permitted hours for operating motor vehicles.
“We’re just hammering away as best as we can.”
No Timeline Yet on First-Past Completion
Khan could not estimate when the City will complete first-pass snow-clearing operations.
“We’re hoping to announce today, tomorrow,” Khan said of a possible timeline.
The City’s “Significant Weather Event” declaration, issued on February 15, 2025, remains in effect.
Residents are not required to have sidewalks adjacent to their properties clear until 24 hours after the City’s declaration ends.
Hamilton’s ten-day weather forecast predicts colder-than-average temperatures, meaning the City cannot expect melting to assist with clearing.
“We continue to plough through it,” Khan said.
Note: TPR has requested comment from Mayor Andrea Horwath.
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Published: February 21, 2025
Last updated: February 21, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
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