Several individuals in Toronto are facing ongoing challenges due to delayed snow removal efforts following the city’s recent heavy snowfall.
The inadequate clearing of snow on sidewalks has forced Regal Heights resident Megan Rodd to walk on the road with her two young children to daycare.
Rodd expressed her frustration, noting the danger of navigating traffic from both directions under such circumstances.
Last month, Toronto experienced over 50 centimeters of snow, marking the snowiest January on record since 1937.
According to a city spokesperson in a statement to CBC Toronto, snow removal is a complex process involving multiple crews and heavy machinery.
Jas Baweja mentioned that crews are actively clearing snow from bikeways, narrow residential streets, and sidewalks. However, snow removal operations may be paused during forecasted snow events to prioritize salting and plowing.
The city initially focuses on high-priority areas like hospitals, bridges, school zones, and streetcar routes, with 95% of this process already completed.
Rodd highlighted her difficulty navigating a snowy area near a high school with a stroller, describing it as impassable due to the slushy snow.
After reporting the issue to 311 and learning that the area had been cleared by the city, Rodd turned to a local Facebook group for support and found a community member willing to take action.
Amanda Floyd and Ryan Floyd, who reside in the same vicinity, also highlighted challenges faced while walking their dog on snow-covered streets.
Floyd mentioned witnessing cars parking on sidewalks, obstructing pedestrian pathways, and shared the struggles of navigating with a stroller.
Residents like Juan Carlos Balders, residing in the same neighborhood, highlighted the difficulty of navigating the area without a car due to hazardous and slippery conditions.
Former city councillor Joe Mihevc noted that Toronto follows a snow removal model that pushes snow into piles rather than completely removing it, which is cost-effective and generally effective.
He emphasized that while the recent snowfall has led to increased snow removal efforts, it is crucial for residents to be patient and allow the city crews to complete their work.
According to Mihevc, such heavy snowfall is rare in Toronto, and the city’s response reflects the unique nature of this weather event.