City Makes Snow and Ice Control Accessibility Enhancements

The City of Whitehorse is moving forward with a number of enhancements to snow and ice control throughout the city. In December, Council approved $250,000 to address accessibility following feedback from the community.

Over the holidays, City of Whitehorse Bylaw Services and our Operations crews identified a number of achievable service changes they can quickly implement to increase accessibility for residents.

Starting in January, the City will:

• Hire additional Bylaw resources focused solely on snow and ice control enforcement over the winter months ($70,000)
• Make the following operational changes ($150,000):
  • Dedicated crews to clear windrows near curb-cuts and accessible stalls created by snow clearing equipment during plowing operations in the Central Business District
  • Additional ‘pulling’ of snow in the Central Business District (Removing snow from curb edge to curb edge)
  • Additional support to clear transit stops and shelters

The City will also undertake a $30,000 Snow and Ice Control Accessibility Review to identify additional opportunities for improvements.

Because of community feedback, City of Whitehorse Bylaw Services has also increased Bylaw patrols. To date, Bylaw Constables have laid 11 charges in the downtown core. However, Bylaw Constables continue to see positive efforts by businesses to clear their properties in accordance with the City’s bylaws.

Together, we can all do our part and ensure the city is safe and accessible to everyone.