JACKSON, Wyo. — The Town’s Snowplow Street Division is operating with a short staff. The 11 member team has only eight staff members available, announced the Town this morning Jan. 6.
“Please be patient, expect that the Town will not be plowed as quickly as it has been in the past and that some areas may not be plowed within 24 hours following storms,” said the Town in the press release.
Town staff from various departments are filling in behind the wheels of snowplows to help keep the streets clear
According to the town, snowplow drivers start their day at 2:30 a.m. and in the past typically had streets cleared of snow by 7:30 a.m. With current staff shortages, this simply is not possible, and it has been closer to noon before plowing routes are completed after recent storms. The snowplow team is currently getting everything done, but with fewer people, it takes more time and means more hours on the clock for an over-worked staff.
The Parks & Rec crew plows sidewalks, pathways, and ice rinks in town and are also experiencing delays due to being down three staff members due to hiring challenges and COVID. In the past, plowing was completed between 5 and 9 a.m. With current staff and storms, they are not finished with plowing until 12 p.m. With staff shortages, Parks & Rec is clearing but not detailing ice rinks.
Town Manager Larry Pardee, who got his start in town government plowing streets in Vail, Colorado said, “Our crews are working hard and getting the job done and I am empowering them to take care of themselves as much as the streets. Highways and main streets are the priority and there may be significant delays getting alleys and parking lots plowed as our departments are under-resourced. Thank you for everyone’s patience and understanding as we all get through this winter together with the available resources.”
The Town is asking the community to help by doing these things:
- Keep trashcans off streets and sidewalks until after 7 a.m. –trashcans in the street the night before trash pick-up means plow drivers have to maneuver around or get out and move them, which wastes valuable time and energy.
- Do not park cars in alleys and do not block sidewalks with cars.
- Give plows plenty of space when the streets are being plowed.
- From 2– 7 a.m. do not park on streets, in Town parking lots, or on the top floor of the parking garage.
“I am really proud of this team for putting in the extra effort. They deserve patience, support, and gratitude from our entire community,” said Streets Manager Sam Jewison.
