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Milwaukee DPW: Roadways treated, crews on standby for lake-effect snow

By and
Published  January 6, 2025 5:33am CST
Winter Weather
FOX6 News Milwaukee

Messy morning commute for some in SE Wisconsin

Some commuters should expect a slower drive than normal because of lake effect snow that's falling -- especially in Racine and Kenosha counties. FOX6's Zoe Chipalla shows you more.

The Brief

    • Milwaukee DPW crews are ready to take action if lake-effect snow kicks into high gear.
    • Roadways have already been treated with a salt brine.
    • Drivers are urged to allow city crews proper space to get their work done.

MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) says its road crews are ready to take action should lake-effect snow begin to fall in earnest in the city on Monday, Jan. 6. 

Crews treated main roadways with a brine solution on Friday. Officials say this application, which creates visible white lines of liquid salt on the streets, helps prevent ice buildup. DPW staff will be called in to stand by. Staff will work rotating shifts, around the clock, throughout the storm and during cleanup efforts.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) urges all residents and travelers to drive cautiously and adjust speed to road conditions during the storm. Drivers are urged to give salt and plow trucks ample space on the road to ensure they can safely clear streets. 

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No impact to parking is expected at this time. However, always follow posted signs and park as close to the curb as possible to give room for the large salt and plow trucks to pass through streets.

Ways you can help during a snow operation

  • Be patient and understanding, snow and ice operations take time, all streets will be cleared. It can take 24-48 hours to plow every street during larger snow events.
  • Drive carefully and plan your route to stay on main transportation routes as much as possible during snow and ice events.
  • Only travel if absolutely necessary.
  • Adjust driving for conditions by slowing down and providing more space for braking.
  • Give salt and plow trucks space and stay back from the trucks salting or brining streets to ensure the product hits the streets instead of your car.
  • Park legally and follow alternate side parking rules.  DPW does a better job when parking rules are followed.  Parking farther away from driveways, alleys and intersections allows our equipment to get through.
  • Do not shovel, blow or plow snow back into the streets.
  • Shovel your sidewalk and corners within 24 hours after the snow has stopped falling, assist neighbors who need help.
  • Clear the fire hydrant near your property of snow and ice.
  • Clear snow and ice around and on top of your garbage and recycling carts.

The Source

  • The information in this post was provided by the Milwaukee DPW.

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