As winter approaches, the City of Maple Ridge is getting ready prepared for the season, with big stockpiles of sand and salt.
They’re also reminding residents they have a responsibility to remove snow the sidewalk in front of their property.
The city Snow and Ice Response Plan includes 7000 tonnes of salt, sand, and brine to maintain more than 500 kms of roadway. Crews apply brine to roads ahead of forecasted snowfalls to reduce ice build-up and improve traction.
A fleet of 17 vehicles is ready for 24/7 deployment during snow events. Crews monitor weather forecasts daily to ensure timely brine and salting. Residents can track real-time snow-clearing operations by visiting MapleRidge.ca/Winter.
Crews inspect and maintain stormwater drains, ditches, and culverts to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
There are extreme weather shelters available to those who need a warm place to sleep. The Salvation Army hosts 30 temporary beds at the Ridge Church, open until April 30 from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., with additional support services available at the Community Resource Hub. A warming centre will be activated as required and communicated on the city’s social media channels.
“Our teams start planning for winter long before temperatures drop,” said Walter Oleschak, the chief operating officer. “We train early, prepare equipment, and monitor conditions around the clock. We encourage residents to follow our Be Winter Ready tips — prepare early, clear sidewalks around your property, stay informed and don’t forget your winter tires.”
When snow begins to fall, crews clear priority routes first:
• Access for first responders and emergency facilities
• Main transit routes
• High-volume arterial roads
• Roads providing sole access to large neighbourhoods
Priority route maps are also available on the city website. Crews focus on these routes during snowfall and move to secondary roads once conditions stabilize.
Parks crews clear sidewalks around civic facilities first, then shift to other city-owned pathways as resources allow.
“We’re grateful for everyone’s patience and cooperation during snow events,” said Frank Gratzer, manager of roads. “Our crews work tirelessly through tough conditions to keep roads safe. Please slow down and give snowplows room to work. We also encourage residents to lend a hand to neighbours who may need assistance clearing sidewalks so everyone can get around safely.”
Residents and businesses must clear snow and ice from sidewalks around their properties by 10 a.m. after snowfall. Fines of up to $150 may apply for non-compliance.
Residents are asked to shovel snow onto yard, not the road, so the plow does not move it back onto sidewalks. They should also clear curb access points to maintain accessibility for strollers and mobility devices, and are asked to support neighbours who may have difficulty shoveling
The Lougheed Highway (from Mission to Pitt Meadows), including the Haney Bypass, is maintained by Mainroad Group.
Lougheed Highway (Kanaka Way through downtown to 222 Street) is maintained by the city, while Golden Ears Way and Golden Ears Bridge: is maintained by Miller Capilano Highway Services.
Receive emergency notifications, facility closure notices, and updates by signing up at MapleRidge.ca/Alert.
Follow DriveBC.ca and tune in to local radio stations for up-to-date information on road conditions, traffic delays, and weather advisories.
Report concerns at MapleRidge.ca/Report or at 604-463-9581.
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