On this page you will find updates from the Roads Operations Team about weather events in the City of Ottawa
Spring and Summer Operational Update - Street Sweeping and Beyond - May 30, 2025
Operational Forecast: Summer Edition
Now that street sweeping operations are behind us and summer is just around the corner, the Roads and Parking Services Team is now directing its operations towards summer activities.
This summer you may see staff out in your community working on:
- Maintaining gravel roads
- Cutting roadside grass in rural areas where there are ditches, and no curbs (along with our partners in Parks Maintenance Services who are working in other urban and suburban neighbourhoods)
- Cleaning rural ditches
- Performing sidewalk and asphalt repairs
- Repairing pieces of ironworks
- Regular street sweeping of arterial and collector roadways
- Filling potholes
- Maintaining City-owned culverts (those that run underneath City roads)
- Maintaining more than 2,500 bike parking facilities on the public right-of-way
- Getting ready for winter (yes, you read that right, but they’ll come back to this later this year!)
- And the list goes on….
They are about more than just winter operations! While the summer team may be smaller than what you see over the winter months, it’s still mighty and you can be sure that they will continue working on keeping the transportation network safe for all users. You too, can help by reporting concerns by visiting Ottawa.ca/311. Your request will be assessed before work is scheduled and performed in accordance with the Maintenance Quality Standards.
As we head into summer, you may not hear from them as much during the spring and summer months, but the Roads and Parking Services team remains committed to you, the residents, and visitors of our City – all year long
City-wide Street Sweeping Operations – April 11th, 2025
Today, we are happy to announce that city-wide street sweeping operations are underway! Move over snowplows, here come the street sweepers!
How long will it take?
Street sweeping operations are an essential part of cleaning up the transportation network, and our Maintenance Quality Standards (MQS) require us to complete them by May 31st. Street sweeping typically begins as early as the weather will allow and occurs during both daytime and nighttime shifts. But when the overnight temperature drops below zero, operations must be paused as the water we use on the road can form into ice, creating dangerous conditions.
Because of recent winter-like weather and colder temperatures, this spring’s cleanup and street sweeping activities are starting later than usual. Timelines may be impacted but staff will do their best to stay on schedule – either way, you can rest assured that regular updates will be provided as staff progress through spring cleanup efforts.
How is city-wide street sweeping completed?
City-wide street sweeping is done in phases:
- Sidewalks, bus stop pads and medians are cleaned first by a variety of methods using sidewalk sweepers, leaf blowers, flusher trucks and hand brooms.
- A sidewalk sweeper will work in the area first, pushing grit, debris and dust onto the roadway. A vacuum sweeper or mechanical sweeper truck then picks up the majority of grit, debris, small particles and dust removing it from the road.
- This operation might be repeated several times to ensure a clean surface. If vehicles are parked on the street, the unswept area is noted, and crews will return to sweep that portion at a later date.
Resident support is required
- Residents are reminded to not rake or blow leaves, lawn clippings or other debris onto the roadways as it can make our operations more challenging, especially if the area has already been swept.
- There are no parking restrictions during city-wide street sweeping operations. However, we encourage anyone who can to please remove vehicles from the roadway to allow the street sweeping teams to complete their clean-up efficiently.
Street sweeping operations can be noisy and disruptive, for the short period in which they take place. However, they are an essential part of our spring clean-up efforts and as such; the City of Ottawa’s street sweeping operations are exempt from the Noise By-law (No. 2017-255) under Section 21(1) and may run at any time.
More information about our street sweeping operations is available on Ottawa.ca/springmaintenance.
Operations Update: Spring Snow Event - Tuesday, April 8 - Afternoon
Forecast and conditions
A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region with up to 10 centimetres expected today before coming to an end this afternoon. The heaviest of snow fell this morning. Strong winds, gusting at 60 kilometres per hour are possible throughout the day, causing drifting and blowing snow. Travel may be hazardous due to reduced visibility and local blowing snow.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using the transportation network today.
Roads and Parking services team response
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to operate 24/7. Supervisors are monitoring the conditions of the transportation network, and their focus is clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network as required. As the day goes on and looking ahead to tomorrow, residential neighbourhoods will be monitored, and snow and ice conditions will be treated as needed.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network over the next 24 hours and unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the last operational update for this spring snow event.
Staff appreciates your patience as they balance operations between responding to this weather event and spring operations.
Please continue to travel with care today.
Spring Snow Event - Monday, April 7 – Afternoon
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. A low-pressure system is expected to bring a brief period of heavy snow to the area beginning this evening with 5 to 10 centimetres possible. The snow may be mixed with rain at times, and by Tuesday morning another round of snow is expected, bringing an additional 5 centimetres to the region. Overnight and into Tuesday morning, winds will be 30 kilometres per hour and gusting up to 50, creating local blowing and drifting snow.
Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather, and visibility may be suddenly reduced in heavy snowfall and/or blowing and drifting snow. If you are out, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas.
Roads and Parking services team response
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to operate 24/7, and they are ready! Supervisors will be monitoring the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network. Their focus will be on clearing and treating priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network.
Please be patient. Crews must transition from their spring maintenance activities to respond to this weather event, but rest assured, they will be hard at work clearing and treating the transportation network.
Concentrated street sweeping will be paused
Over the weekend, concentrated street sweeping began in the Urban area. However, operations will temporarily cease this afternoon as crews will be reassigned to respond to the spring storm. Concentrated street sweeping operations will resume as soon as weather conditions permit.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this weather system and the transportation network throughout the afternoon, evening and overnight.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as this spring storm moves through the region.
Please travel with care.
Spring Ice/Rain Weather Event - Wednesday, April 2, 2025 - Afternoon
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning and Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region. Freezing rain, followed by significant rainfall, is expected to begin Wednesday afternoon and continue through to Thursday morning. Precipitation will begin as snow and ice pellets late in the afternoon before turning to freezing rain with ice accretion of 2 to 5 millimetres possible. The wind will be 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40. As the temperature rises, precipitation will turn to rain, heavy at times, with total rainfall amounts of 15 to 25 millimetres expected. Locally higher amounts as well as flooding in low-lying areas are possible.
Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Please adjust to the conditions of the network.
Our response
Supervisors are monitoring the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network. Their focus will be on treating priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network with salt and abrasives. Parks Maintenance will be out treating City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres. Meanwhile, Public Works will be on hand throughout the duration of this weather event to provide operational support if required.
With significant rainfall expected, staff will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the city, staff cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using the city’s catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let them know!
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast, the transportation network and adjust our response according to the weather conditions.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as staff navigate responding to this spring weather event and managing regular spring maintenance activities.
Travel with care today,
Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning and Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region. Freezing rain, followed by significant rainfall, is expected to begin Wednesday afternoon and continue through to Thursday morning. Precipitation will begin as snow and ice pellets late in the afternoon before turning to freezing rain with ice accretion of 2 to 5 millimetres possible. The wind will be 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40. As the temperature rises, precipitation will turn to rain, heavy at times, with total rainfall amounts of 15 to 25 millimetres expected. Locally higher amounts as well as flooding in low-lying areas are possible.
Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Please adjust to the conditions of the network.
Our response
Supervisors are monitoring the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network. Their focus will be on treating priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network with salt and abrasives. Parks Maintenance will be out treating City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres. Meanwhile, Public Works will be on hand throughout the duration of this weather event to provide operational support if required.
With significant rainfall expected, staff will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the city, staff cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using the city’s catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let them know!
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast, the transportation network and adjust our response according to the weather conditions.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as staff navigate responding to this spring weather event and managing regular spring maintenance activities.
Travel with care today,
Spring Snow/Ice Weather Event – March 28, 2025 Update
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa Region advising of a spring snow/ice weather event forecasted to arrive late Friday and last to Monday. This system is expected to bring snow, ice pellets and freezing rain. Local snowfall and ice pellet accumulations of 10 to 15 centimetres and ice accretion from the freezing rain between to 5 to 10 millimetres are possible. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots will become icy and slippery, and there is a possibility of power outages and tree damage from the ice accretion.
CURRENT CONDITIONS
Although there is increasing confidence in a widespread, prolonged freezing rain event, there is uncertainty around the types and amount of precipitation. Most relevant is the uncertainty about the amount of possible ice accretion for the Ottawa region. It is expected that more warnings will be issued as the event draws nearer. Given the current forecast, a Significant Weather Event may be declared as conditions become more certain.
OUR RESPONSE
In preparation for this spring snow/ice weather event, the City has escalated to a “Monitoring” stance.
As part of the Public Works Department’s preparedness work, Roads and Parking Services are preparing snow-clearing and salting equipment, filling salt domes and readying to deploy all resources. Parks Maintenance will also be out in full force, pre-salting City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations), as well as lots serving recreation centres. Traffic Services will be monitoring traffic signals and managing mobility implications, with on-call personnel prepared for controller and signal issues. Forestry will monitor wind and ice accretion and is set to respond for downed trees and dangerous limbs.
WHAT RESIDENTS CAN DO
- Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time prepare your emergency kit.
- Safety is a priority for the Public Works team, and they will be out in full force. Conditions will be hazardous, and residents are reminded to give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- At this time, there is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. Service requests should only be created for emergencies, such as downed tree limbs blocking sidewalks, roads or the cycling network.
- Exercise caution, especially with children and pets, when around waterways.
NEXT STEPS
The City will monitor conditions throughout the weekend and is prepared to coordinate resident supports, if required. The Office of Emergency Management is liaising with local utility providers, among others, to facilitate coordination on issues such as potential power outages.
Operational Update - Pothole Repairs - Tuesday, March 25 - Afternoon
As a follow up to the operational update provided last week on pothole repairs, crews continue working hard applying temporary patches to potholes created by multiple freeze/thaw cycles and wet conditions the city has experienced lately.
Did you know?
- Roads and Parking Services staff maintain approximately 6,000 kilometres of roads, or approximately 13,000 lane kilometres
- Depending on the weather and temperature, staff work around the clock to clear and remove snow, open catch basins and ditches, repair potholes, mitigate drainage and localized flooding issues, and complete spring clean-up activities – just to name a few!
- The same crews responsible for spreading salt and/or grit during freeze/thaw cycles, are also opening up catch basins and ditches to support melting and water flow during thaws
- In Ottawa, the 5-year average of freeze/thaw cycles over the winter season is 78. As a reminder, freeze/thaw cycles are the leading cause for potholes, which thrive in these types of environments
- Crews continue to use Cold Patch and Warm Mix asphalt to repair potholes as March is considered a winter month and not ideal for pothole repairs. The unstable conditions, including ice and water in the holes, as well as the cold temperatures and frequent freeze / thaw cycles, prevents the patch from adhering as well to the roadway making the repair temporary. As a reminder on what these products are made up of:
- Cold Patch asphalt is a blended asphalt material which can be stored for extended periods of time. It can be used in all temperatures, does not require special equipment to compact and can be applied directly to the roadway without heating.
- Warm Mix asphalt can be used year-round and produced at a lower temperature using different adhesives in the mix. Once the material is heated, the adhesives become thinner allowing improved workability and flow. The material can be manually compacted with a tamper, or shaped and compacted with power plate tampers or rollers.
Potholes-by-the-numbers
- The total number of potholes repaired between January 1 and March 24, 2025, is 33,701.
- The total number of potholes crews assigned to pothole repairs since March 17, 2025, is 218.
Residents can create a service request online to report a pothole.
Next steps
The team continues to keep a close eye on the forecast and in the meantime, crews will continue their work on pothole repairs as well as preparations for the transition to spring maintenance activities.
Operational Update - Pothole Repairs - Monday, March, 17
The freeze/thaw cycles have now taken hold, and it’s wreaking havoc on roads, sidewalks and winter cycling network. The Roads and Parking Services team has sprung into action to address the increased number of potholes throughout the city. Last week, work began on filling potholes, and this week, they will begin redirecting additional resources and deploying more crews to fill potholes.
Python pothole patcher
The city has currently secured 2 Python 5000 machines. They arrived last night at 7pm and will be working in different areas throughout the city. They will work 12-hour shifts (day and night) over the next few weeks as the city continues to experience freeze/thaw cycles. So, what are they? The Python Pothole Patcher can fill a pothole in less than two minutes. With the operator working safely from inside the cab, workers are protected from oncoming traffic as the work can all be completed without the need of stepping foot outside of the vehicle.
If you see them while travelling, please, do not pass them. They may be filling a pothole but remember, it will only take a few minutes!
How are potholes formed?
Potholes are formed when water (from rain or melted snow and ice) seeps into small cracks or holes in the road. As temperatures drop, the water under the road freezes and expands pushing up on the road above, creating larger cracks – when the temperature rises above zero, the water evaporates and leaves an open space under the road. The weight of cars and trucks travelling over these weak spots breaks the asphalt, resulting in potholes.
How do we repair potholes?
Potholes are filled by cleaning the hole of debris and water, then packing it with asphalt and rolling or pounding it down. At this time of year, some potholes in high traffic areas may need to be refilled more than once. This happens because water works its way back into the hole preventing the asphalt from forming an adhesive bond with the pavement.
Filling potholes in winter
In winter, conditions are not ideal for pothole repairs. The unstable conditions, including ice and water in the holes, as well as the cold temperatures and frequent freeze / thaw cycles, prevents the patch from adhering as well to the roadway making the repair temporary. Products that staff use to repair potholes during the winter months are Cold Patch and Warm Mix asphalt.
Cold Patch asphalt is a blended asphalt material which can be stored for extended periods of time. It can be used in all temperatures, does not require special equipment to compact and can be applied directly to the roadway without heating.
Warm Mix asphalt can be used year-round and produced at a lower temperature using different adhesives in the mix. Once the material is heated, the adhesives become thinner allowing improved workability and flow. The material can be manually compacted with a tamper, or shaped and compacted with power plate tampers or rollers.
Next steps
Based on the forecast, we are anticipating several freeze-thaw cycles over the coming weeks. The city has already experienced 37 freeze/thaw cycles this winter season. Residents can expect to see pothole crews across the City. Ottawa winters are hard on infrastructure, and this year in particular, the city is anticipating an increased number of potholes. The Roads and Parking Services team appreciates your patience as they transition between different winter maintenance activities and prioritize and deploy resources to complete operations.
For residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online: https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/road-and-sidewalk-maintenance/pothole
The freeze/thaw cycles have now taken hold, and it’s wreaking havoc on roads, sidewalks and winter cycling network. The Roads and Parking Services team has sprung into action to address the increased number of potholes throughout the city. Last week, work began on filling potholes, and this week, they will begin redirecting additional resources and deploying more crews to fill potholes.
Python pothole patcher
The city has currently secured 2 Python 5000 machines. They arrived last night at 7pm and will be working in different areas throughout the city. They will work 12-hour shifts (day and night) over the next few weeks as the city continues to experience freeze/thaw cycles. So, what are they? The Python Pothole Patcher can fill a pothole in less than two minutes. With the operator working safely from inside the cab, workers are protected from oncoming traffic as the work can all be completed without the need of stepping foot outside of the vehicle.
If you see them while travelling, please, do not pass them. They may be filling a pothole but remember, it will only take a few minutes!
How are potholes formed?
Potholes are formed when water (from rain or melted snow and ice) seeps into small cracks or holes in the road. As temperatures drop, the water under the road freezes and expands pushing up on the road above, creating larger cracks – when the temperature rises above zero, the water evaporates and leaves an open space under the road. The weight of cars and trucks travelling over these weak spots breaks the asphalt, resulting in potholes.
How do we repair potholes?
Potholes are filled by cleaning the hole of debris and water, then packing it with asphalt and rolling or pounding it down. At this time of year, some potholes in high traffic areas may need to be refilled more than once. This happens because water works its way back into the hole preventing the asphalt from forming an adhesive bond with the pavement.
Filling potholes in winter
In winter, conditions are not ideal for pothole repairs. The unstable conditions, including ice and water in the holes, as well as the cold temperatures and frequent freeze / thaw cycles, prevents the patch from adhering as well to the roadway making the repair temporary. Products that staff use to repair potholes during the winter months are Cold Patch and Warm Mix asphalt.
Cold Patch asphalt is a blended asphalt material which can be stored for extended periods of time. It can be used in all temperatures, does not require special equipment to compact and can be applied directly to the roadway without heating.
Warm Mix asphalt can be used year-round and produced at a lower temperature using different adhesives in the mix. Once the material is heated, the adhesives become thinner allowing improved workability and flow. The material can be manually compacted with a tamper, or shaped and compacted with power plate tampers or rollers.
Next steps
Based on the forecast, we are anticipating several freeze-thaw cycles over the coming weeks. The city has already experienced 37 freeze/thaw cycles this winter season. Residents can expect to see pothole crews across the City. Ottawa winters are hard on infrastructure, and this year in particular, the city is anticipating an increased number of potholes. The Roads and Parking Services team appreciates your patience as they transition between different winter maintenance activities and prioritize and deploy resources to complete operations.
For residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online: https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/road-and-sidewalk-maintenance/pothole
Winter Operations Update - Friday, March 14 – Afternoon
We’re almost halfway through March and the forecast is looking pretty good, but the Roads and Parking Services team remain busy! There is always work to be done, even when it’s not snowing.
Forecast and Conditions
Temperatures are expected to reach double digits over the weekend with mainly sunny conditions until Sunday, showers are then expected to move into the region with up to 15 millimetres possible through the day and night.
Roads and Parking Services Team Response
Across the City and as the system moves into the region, supervisors will monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding. Over the past couple of weeks, crews have been busy opening catch basins and ditches, particularly in areas that are known for water ponding and flooding, to ensure they are able to take in water to prepare for the melting snow and rain events.
Staff would like to thank residents for their assistance over the last few weeks supporting their operations by clearing local catch basins across the city, they couldn’t have done it without you. Keep up the good work! Find your nearest catch basin using the city’s catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let them know!
Higher daytime temperatures followed by freezing temperatures at night create icy and slippery conditions on the transportation network. Given the number of freeze/thaw cycles this week, crews have also been spot treating roads, sidewalks and the winter cycling with salt as required. Residents are reminded to take care when walking, driving or cycling.
Snow Removal Operations are Winding Down
Earlier this week, crews started winding down snow removal operations. They will continue to remove the large piles of snow in cul-de-sacs and dead ends as needed in the coming days. To date, crews have removed a whopping 2,198,950 cubic metres of snow. That’s like filling Bayshore Shopping Centre twice, with overflow into the parking garage!
A Peek at Potholes
This winter has been a wild ride, one that Ottawa has not seen in a long time. With a total of 227 centimetres of snow to date, 109 centimetres of which fell in February alone, 94 millimeters of rainfall, and 35 freeze-thaw cycles, the team has been busy this winter season!
Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs and have filled over 14,700 potholes. To report a pothole, residents can create a service request online.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the forecast and transportation network over the weekend and address any issues as required. Staff would like to take a moment thank all our city partners for their support during snow removal operations these past few weeks and through this busy time.
Crews will continue their work on potholes repairs in the coming weeks, and a more fulsome update will be provided early next week.
This time of year there are competing priorities and along with unpredictable weather, the team is balancing multiple maintenance activities at the same time. Patience is appreciated as staff wind down on winter operations and prepare for the transition to spring.
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (March 11th) and tomorrow during the day (March 12th)
Overnight March 11th:
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to BRIDLEWOOD
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to STONEHAVEN
PINE HILL FROM STEEPLE CHASE to STONEHAVEN
Daytime March 12th:
STONEMEADOW from STONEHAVEN to SPRINGCREEK
EQUESTRIAN from CADENCE to BRIDGESTONE
EQUESTRIAN from BRIDGESTONE S to CADENCE
HARNESS from STONEHAVEN to EQUESTRIAN
AKERSON from MICHAEL COPELAND to COPE
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Thursday, March 6th
Brace yourselves, Ottawa; the weather is going to get messy, and so will the transportation network, but the Roads and Parking Services team is on it!
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Flash Freeze Warning for the Ottawa region. Rain showers or periods of drizzle are expected to continue through this morning, and then temperatures will rapidly drop below the freezing mark this afternoon. Any ponding water or wet surfaces can freeze, creating icy and slippery conditions. Precipitation is then expected to transition over to snow with up to 5 centimetres possible. The wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50 and may cause blowing and drifting snow this evening.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. If you are travelling, please exercise caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Across the City and as the system transitions from rain to snow, supervisors will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network, and will deploy resources as needed.
Staff will continue to monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and ensure catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water. In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, they cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Report a blocked catch basin
Snow removal operations resume
The Roads and Parking Services team will resume full snow removal operations throughout the City today, and will continue to work 24/7 over the weekend and into next week. An update on the team’s progress and planned activities will be provided next week.
Potholes
It’s that time of the year for freeze/thaw cycles, and what comes with this type of weather pattern? Potholes, of course! The Roads and Parking Services team has begun pothole repairs across the city. Crews were deployed today, and they will continue to work over the weekend and into next week
Report a pothole
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network over the next 24 hours and beyond to address icy and slippery conditions resulting from the frequent freeze/thaw cycles. Looking ahead to the forecast for the weekend and into the start of next week, the weather is stable, and temperatures are on the rise. Crews will continue their work on snow removal and potholes.
Thank you and travel with care today.
Planned Snowbank Clearing for tonight (March 4th)
Overnight (March 4th)
BRIDGESTONE from EQUESTRIAN to STONEHAVEN
BRIDGESTONE from EAGLESON to EQUESTRIAN
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
BRIDGESTONE from EQUESTRIAN to STONEHAVEN
BRIDGESTONE from EAGLESON to EQUESTRIAN
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Tuesday, March 4 - Afternoon
Here comes the rain, Ottawa; could this be the first sign of spring? It’s too early to tell, but the Roads and Parking Services team is ready to adjust to the unpredictable weather that March has to offer!
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region. Periods of snow are expected to begin this morning and ice pellets this afternoon with 5 centimetres possible. Rain is expected to begin tonight with a risk of freezing rain as temperatures may be below zero as the rain begins. The temperature is then expected to quickly rise above zero and rain will continue through Wednesday with 15 to 25 millimetres possible. Given the limited ability of the frozen ground to absorb water, the rain combined with melting snow may lead to localized flooding in low lying areas and water pooling on roads.
Changing conditions will make the transportation network messy, be prepared to adjust and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas.
Response
Across the City and as this system moves into the region, supervisors will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network, identify any areas of concern and deploy resources as needed. With the significant amount of rain on the way, they will also be monitoring areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In preparation for this rain event, crews have been proactively opening up catch basins. In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, staff cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support residents can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using the catch basin locator map. Report a blocked catch basin Here
Snow removal operations will be paused
With the incoming rain and mild temperatures, snow removal operations will be paused at noon on Wednesday, March 5. Resources will be reallocated to address icy conditions on the transportation network and drainage issues. Once the system has moved out of the region, crews will be able to return to snow removal operations.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor this system as freezing rain warnings or freezing drizzle advisories may be required as the event draws close. Meanwhile, supervisors will continue to monitor the transportation network over the next 24 hours, and if required, another update will be provided tomorrow.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as staff adjust operations to respond to this weather event.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region. Periods of snow are expected to begin this morning and ice pellets this afternoon with 5 centimetres possible. Rain is expected to begin tonight with a risk of freezing rain as temperatures may be below zero as the rain begins. The temperature is then expected to quickly rise above zero and rain will continue through Wednesday with 15 to 25 millimetres possible. Given the limited ability of the frozen ground to absorb water, the rain combined with melting snow may lead to localized flooding in low lying areas and water pooling on roads.
Changing conditions will make the transportation network messy, be prepared to adjust and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas.
Response
Across the City and as this system moves into the region, supervisors will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network, identify any areas of concern and deploy resources as needed. With the significant amount of rain on the way, they will also be monitoring areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In preparation for this rain event, crews have been proactively opening up catch basins. In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, staff cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support residents can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using the catch basin locator map. Report a blocked catch basin Here
Snow removal operations will be paused
With the incoming rain and mild temperatures, snow removal operations will be paused at noon on Wednesday, March 5. Resources will be reallocated to address icy conditions on the transportation network and drainage issues. Once the system has moved out of the region, crews will be able to return to snow removal operations.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor this system as freezing rain warnings or freezing drizzle advisories may be required as the event draws close. Meanwhile, supervisors will continue to monitor the transportation network over the next 24 hours, and if required, another update will be provided tomorrow.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as staff adjust operations to respond to this weather event.
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (March 3rd) and tomorrow during the day (March 4th)
March 3rd (overnight)
CASTLEFRANK from HAZELDEAN to SHELDRAKE
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
EAGLESON PARK and RIDE
March 4th (daytime)
MCCURDY from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
MAPLE GROVE from TERRY FOX to YOUNG
YOUNGS FARM from FORBES to MAPLE GROVE
CURRAN from KATIMAVIK to MCCURDY
SEWELL from KATIMAVIK to MCCURDY
MCLAUGHLIN from DEAD END
PETERSON from DEAD END to ROBARTS
MEADOWBREEZE from SUMMERGAZE to GLENRILL
MEADOWBREEZE from GRASSY PLAINS to DEAD END
ACCEPTANCE from SUMMERGAZE to HOPE SIDE
SUMMERGAZE from ACCEPTANCE to SUMMITVIEW
SUMMITVIEW from SUMMERGAZE to PINELOCK
SUMMITVIEW from DEAD END to STONEHAVEN
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to ACCEPTANCE
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
CASTLEFRANK from HAZELDEAN to SHELDRAKE
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
EAGLESON PARK and RIDE
March 4th (daytime)
MCCURDY from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
MAPLE GROVE from TERRY FOX to YOUNG
YOUNGS FARM from FORBES to MAPLE GROVE
CURRAN from KATIMAVIK to MCCURDY
SEWELL from KATIMAVIK to MCCURDY
MCLAUGHLIN from DEAD END
PETERSON from DEAD END to ROBARTS
MEADOWBREEZE from SUMMERGAZE to GLENRILL
MEADOWBREEZE from GRASSY PLAINS to DEAD END
ACCEPTANCE from SUMMERGAZE to HOPE SIDE
SUMMERGAZE from ACCEPTANCE to SUMMITVIEW
SUMMITVIEW from SUMMERGAZE to PINELOCK
SUMMITVIEW from DEAD END to STONEHAVEN
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to ACCEPTANCE
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Friday, February 28 - Afternoon
Brace yourselves, Ottawa, and get your shovels ready; we’ve got another system headed our way.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the Ottawa region. A significant snowfall is expected late this afternoon through Saturday morning, with 15 centimetres possible. Snow will be heavy at times, with the heaviest snowfall expected this evening into the overnight. The wind will be 20 kilometres per hour, becoming light before morning and the temperature is expected to rise to zero with another 2 to 4 centimetres possible. There is also a risk of freezing rain early in the morning.
Heavy snowfall could make travel difficult, and visibility may be suddenly reduced at times. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
A Daytime Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Saturday, March 1 from 10 am to 7 pm. When vehicles are removed from Ottawa’s streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in the city’s exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, they encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
Winter Operations Team Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready, and all available resources will be deployed. Supervisors will be monitoring how this system tracks and the conditions of the transportation network this evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed once accumulation begins. The winter operations team’s focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities until crews have been able to clear the residential sidewalks and streets.
Snow Removal Operations Will be Paused
Since February 17, the Roads and Parking Services team has been working day and night on snow removal operations across the City. The team continues to focus on Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads, and school zones. Crews have also been working on urban residential streets, bridge decks and addressing sightline concerns at intersections and corners. To date the team has removed 1,138,546 cubic metres of snow. That’s like filling the RedBlacks stadium at TD Place to the top of the stands four times!
Resources dedicated to removing snowbanks will be reallocated to respond to this weather event and once the transportation network is restored, crews will be able to return to snow removal operations. With an exception in the Urban Area and some select areas throughout the city where crews will continue snow removal throughout the storm and over the weekend.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 24 hours and beyond.
They are committed to keeping residents informed and will provide another update tomorrow on the team’s progress.
Brace yourselves, Ottawa, and get your shovels ready; we’ve got another system headed our way.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the Ottawa region. A significant snowfall is expected late this afternoon through Saturday morning, with 15 centimetres possible. Snow will be heavy at times, with the heaviest snowfall expected this evening into the overnight. The wind will be 20 kilometres per hour, becoming light before morning and the temperature is expected to rise to zero with another 2 to 4 centimetres possible. There is also a risk of freezing rain early in the morning.
Heavy snowfall could make travel difficult, and visibility may be suddenly reduced at times. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
A Daytime Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Saturday, March 1 from 10 am to 7 pm. When vehicles are removed from Ottawa’s streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in the city’s exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, they encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- Flashing blue lights means staff are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind snow removal plows – please never pass the vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
Winter Operations Team Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready, and all available resources will be deployed. Supervisors will be monitoring how this system tracks and the conditions of the transportation network this evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed once accumulation begins. The winter operations team’s focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities until crews have been able to clear the residential sidewalks and streets.
Snow Removal Operations Will be Paused
Since February 17, the Roads and Parking Services team has been working day and night on snow removal operations across the City. The team continues to focus on Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads, and school zones. Crews have also been working on urban residential streets, bridge decks and addressing sightline concerns at intersections and corners. To date the team has removed 1,138,546 cubic metres of snow. That’s like filling the RedBlacks stadium at TD Place to the top of the stands four times!
Resources dedicated to removing snowbanks will be reallocated to respond to this weather event and once the transportation network is restored, crews will be able to return to snow removal operations. With an exception in the Urban Area and some select areas throughout the city where crews will continue snow removal throughout the storm and over the weekend.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 24 hours and beyond.
They are committed to keeping residents informed and will provide another update tomorrow on the team’s progress.
Winter Operations Update - Thursday, February 27 - Afternoon
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. Light snow is forecasted to intensify later today as bands of heavy snow move into the area, and visibility will be significantly reduced at times. The wind will be up to 15 kilometres per hour. The snow is expected to taper to flurries by this evening with 5 to 10 centimetres possible.
Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the changing conditions of the transportation network as visibility may be reduced at times in heavy snow.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network this morning and into the evening. Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network.
Please be patient. Operations may take longer than usual as visibility may be reduced and the amount of snow still on the ground will make it difficult for crews to navigate the transportation network.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is monitoring another system that is expected tomorrow evening, and an update will be provided as the system unfolds.
Thank you for your continued support of the city’s winter operations.
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (February 26th) and tomorrow during the day (February 27th)
Overnight February 26th:
BRIDLEWOOD from STONEHAVEN to STEEPLE CHASE
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to BRIDLEWOOD
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to STONEHAVEN
Daytime February 27th:
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRDIGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
AUMTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
BRIDLEWOOD from STONEHAVEN to STEEPLE CHASE
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to BRIDLEWOOD
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to STONEHAVEN
Daytime February 27th:
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRDIGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
AUMTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Snow Removal Operations Update - Tuesday, February 25 - Evening
For the past week, crews have been working day and night on snow removal operations with the goal of making the transportation network safe and passable for all users by reducing the hazards caused by snowbanks that restrict access or visibility. It is a monumental task that will take weeks to complete given the sheer volume of snow on the transportation network. We recognize operations are taking longer than usual, but rest assured, crews are hard at work.
All of our winter operations and maintenance activities are carried out in accordance with our Council approved Maintenance Quality Standards, including snow removal. Snow removal on our transportation network is triggered by the amount of snow accumulation that is encroaching on the roadway. Following two back-to-back major winter storms, the Ottawa airport has reported 92 centimetres on the ground. That is a lot of snow to remove! We haven’t had that much snow on the ground since 2001.
How are snow removal activities prioritized?
When snow starts to encroach and minimize the width of the roadway, sidewalk or winter cycling lanes, crews complete snow removal operations in between weather events. This requires the use of equipment to physically remove snow from the side of the road and transport it to one of our snow storage facilities or to move it to the city’s right-of-way. Our operations are prioritized by the Council approved Maintenance Quality Standards and timeline for each classification of roadway: arterial, collectors and residential streets.
Did you know that snow removal operations in Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads can only be conducted overnight? For the safety of our residents and operators, to maintain traffic flow, and to limit disruptions to business districts, the best time to complete snow removal is overnight, which limits how much the team can accomplish in one 12-hour shift. The same operational timing also applies to busy residential neighborhoods near business districts and commercial areas as well as school zones where pedestrian traffic is much higher during the daytime. Snow removal that occurs during the daytime happens on streets where there is less traffic and fewer pedestrians. Safety is our number one priority.
Snow removal operations continue 24/7
The focus remains on Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads, and school zones. Crews are also working on urban residential streets, bridge decks and addressing sightline concerns at intersections and corners, as well as other residential neighborhoods with significant encroachment into the travel lanes or limited snow storage remaining. On Sunday, February 9, the team proactively began selective snow removal throughout the city to mitigate the snowbanks ahead of the major storms that blanketed the city. To that end, the focus is in the areas where no snow removal has occurred this winter season.
The team continues their work, day and night, on snow removal operations throughout the City. Since Monday, February 17, 628 kilometres of roadway have been marked as complete. That’s like driving to just shy of Windsor, Ontario, in a blower, with dump trucks lined up the whole way!
All resources have been assigned to snow removal as well as hundreds of contractors; together, they have removed more than over 516,000 cubic meters of snow and hauled it to our six snow storage facilities across the city. To put that into perspective, the amount of snow removed would fit into the Canadian Tire Centre and then some! The snow storage facilities are filling up fast, and crews are working hard to make room for all that snow, but it takes time.
Did you know that we can have up to 7 workers assigned to a single snow removal crew with another 8 to 12 operators hauling snow from our roads and into our snow disposal facilities? This means that over a 12-hour period, we can have up to 513 people working on snow removal simultaneously. This doesn’t even include those who are out coordinating, leading and supporting the operations!
Please remember that parking restrictions are in effect during snow removal operations – pay close attention to posted signage as these indicate when parking restrictions will take effect. Failure to remove parked vehicles from areas scheduled for snow removal will be ticketed and towed to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with on-street parking permits.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue working on removing snowbanks and widening the roadways to make the transportation network safe and passable for everyone.
Your patience and support are appreciated as we continue working through this busy winter season.
All of our winter operations and maintenance activities are carried out in accordance with our Council approved Maintenance Quality Standards, including snow removal. Snow removal on our transportation network is triggered by the amount of snow accumulation that is encroaching on the roadway. Following two back-to-back major winter storms, the Ottawa airport has reported 92 centimetres on the ground. That is a lot of snow to remove! We haven’t had that much snow on the ground since 2001.
How are snow removal activities prioritized?
When snow starts to encroach and minimize the width of the roadway, sidewalk or winter cycling lanes, crews complete snow removal operations in between weather events. This requires the use of equipment to physically remove snow from the side of the road and transport it to one of our snow storage facilities or to move it to the city’s right-of-way. Our operations are prioritized by the Council approved Maintenance Quality Standards and timeline for each classification of roadway: arterial, collectors and residential streets.
Did you know that snow removal operations in Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads can only be conducted overnight? For the safety of our residents and operators, to maintain traffic flow, and to limit disruptions to business districts, the best time to complete snow removal is overnight, which limits how much the team can accomplish in one 12-hour shift. The same operational timing also applies to busy residential neighborhoods near business districts and commercial areas as well as school zones where pedestrian traffic is much higher during the daytime. Snow removal that occurs during the daytime happens on streets where there is less traffic and fewer pedestrians. Safety is our number one priority.
Snow removal operations continue 24/7
The focus remains on Business Improvement Areas, business districts, arterial and collector roads, and school zones. Crews are also working on urban residential streets, bridge decks and addressing sightline concerns at intersections and corners, as well as other residential neighborhoods with significant encroachment into the travel lanes or limited snow storage remaining. On Sunday, February 9, the team proactively began selective snow removal throughout the city to mitigate the snowbanks ahead of the major storms that blanketed the city. To that end, the focus is in the areas where no snow removal has occurred this winter season.
The team continues their work, day and night, on snow removal operations throughout the City. Since Monday, February 17, 628 kilometres of roadway have been marked as complete. That’s like driving to just shy of Windsor, Ontario, in a blower, with dump trucks lined up the whole way!
All resources have been assigned to snow removal as well as hundreds of contractors; together, they have removed more than over 516,000 cubic meters of snow and hauled it to our six snow storage facilities across the city. To put that into perspective, the amount of snow removed would fit into the Canadian Tire Centre and then some! The snow storage facilities are filling up fast, and crews are working hard to make room for all that snow, but it takes time.
Did you know that we can have up to 7 workers assigned to a single snow removal crew with another 8 to 12 operators hauling snow from our roads and into our snow disposal facilities? This means that over a 12-hour period, we can have up to 513 people working on snow removal simultaneously. This doesn’t even include those who are out coordinating, leading and supporting the operations!
Please remember that parking restrictions are in effect during snow removal operations – pay close attention to posted signage as these indicate when parking restrictions will take effect. Failure to remove parked vehicles from areas scheduled for snow removal will be ticketed and towed to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with on-street parking permits.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue working on removing snowbanks and widening the roadways to make the transportation network safe and passable for everyone.
Your patience and support are appreciated as we continue working through this busy winter season.
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (February 25th) and tomorrow during the day (February 26th)
Overnight February 25th:
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESON
STONEHAVEN from EAGLESON to OLD RICHMOND
Daytime February 26th:
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESON
STONEHAVEN from EAGLESON to OLD RICHMOND
Daytime February 26th:
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Planned snowbank clearing February 24th (overnight) and 25th (daytime)
Overnight February 24th:
PATCH from MCCURDY to DEAD END
SHAW from DEAD END to HUMPHREY
SICARD from MCCURDY to DEAD END
YOUNGS POND CRT from MAPLE GROVE to DEAD END
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESONSTONEHAVEN from EAGLESON to OLD RICHMOND RD
EAGLESON PARK'N RIDE
Daytime February 25th:
MCLAUGHLIN to DEAD END
PETERSON from DEAD END to ROBARTS
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
EAGLESON PARK'N RIDE
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
PATCH from MCCURDY to DEAD END
SHAW from DEAD END to HUMPHREY
SICARD from MCCURDY to DEAD END
YOUNGS POND CRT from MAPLE GROVE to DEAD END
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESONSTONEHAVEN from EAGLESON to OLD RICHMOND RD
EAGLESON PARK'N RIDE
Daytime February 25th:
MCLAUGHLIN to DEAD END
PETERSON from DEAD END to ROBARTS
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
EAGLESON PARK'N RIDE
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Planned snowbank clearing February 23rd (overnight) and 24th (daytime)
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (February 23rd) and during the day tomorrow (February 24th)
OVERNIGHT (February 23rd - 24th):
GLAMORGAN from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
ROTHESAY from EAGLESON to GLAMORGAN
MORTON from MCELORY to SHELDRAKE
MCELORY from RICKEY to MORTON
DURING THE DAY (February 24th):
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
COLDWATER from MEADOWBREEZE to MEADOWBREEZE
AUTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
OVERNIGHT (February 23rd - 24th):
GLAMORGAN from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
ROTHESAY from EAGLESON to GLAMORGAN
MORTON from MCELORY to SHELDRAKE
MCELORY from RICKEY to MORTON
DURING THE DAY (February 24th):
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
COLDWATER from MEADOWBREEZE to MEADOWBREEZE
AUTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (February 22nd) and during the day tomorrow (February 23rd)
OVERNIGHT (February 22nd - 23rd)
SHELDRAKE from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
MORTON from MCELORY to SHELDRAKE
MCELORY from RICKEY to MORTON
MCKITRICK from RICKEY to CASTLEFRANK
RICKEY from MCELORY to WINCHESTER
DURING THE DAY (February 23rd)
ABBOTSFORD from MORENA to BANNING
BANNING from ABBEYHILL to ABBOTSFORD
BANNING from MORENA to MORENA
MORENA from BANNING to ABBOTSFORD
ORIOLE from ABBEYHILL to OAKBURN
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
SHELDRAKE from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
MORTON from MCELORY to SHELDRAKE
MCELORY from RICKEY to MORTON
MCKITRICK from RICKEY to CASTLEFRANK
RICKEY from MCELORY to WINCHESTER
DURING THE DAY (February 23rd)
ABBOTSFORD from MORENA to BANNING
BANNING from ABBEYHILL to ABBOTSFORD
BANNING from MORENA to MORENA
MORENA from BANNING to ABBOTSFORD
ORIOLE from ABBEYHILL to OAKBURN
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Planned snowbank clearing during the day tomorrow (February 22nd)
DURING THE DAY (February 22nd):
YOUNGS POND CRT from MAPLE GROVE to DEAD END
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Friday, February 21 – Afternoon
The Roads and Parking Services team has worked tirelessly to restore the transportation network, and light is at the end of the tunnel, Ottawa!
Forecast and conditions
Looking ahead to this weekend’s forecast, conditions remain stable with a chance of flurries, and temperatures are expected to rise on Sunday. On Monday, the temperature is expected to reach above zero, and there’s a chance of flurries during the day, and snow is possible at night. At this time, minimal accumulation is expected.
Transportation network conditions and staff response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. The focus remains on sidewalks and snow removal. Crews are working 24 hours a day on restoring the transportation network and snow removal. There is still a lot to accomplish, but the team is making progress, and their hard work is paying off. Your continued patience and support are appreciated, as a complete cleanup will take weeks to complete.
The sidewalk networks remain snow packed, and the team is working nonstop to restore them; however, they currently do not meet the City’s Maintenance Quality Standards. Crews have been using blowers to widen and clean up the sidewalks and on the weekend are expected to fully transition to blade attachments. They will continue to plow/scrape the remaining snow and apply materials that will help with any remaining snow and ice buildup . Meanwhile, work continues cleaning up bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian island and corners.
Staff expects the transportation network will be restored and align with the City’s Maintenance Quality Standards at the end of this weekend. As such, the Significant Weather Event will be lifted at 7 am, Monday, February 24, and winter operations will return back to normal.
Snow removal operations
The team continues their work, day and night, on snow removal operations throughout the City. Since Monday night, crews have removed more than 90,000 cubic meters of snow using over 300 semi-trailers and 900 dump trucks to haul it to the six snow storage facilities across the city. To put that into perspective, the amount of snow removed would fit into the Aberdeen Pavilion and then some—and they’re just getting started! Due to the sheer volume of snow and size of the snowbanks, snow removal operations are taking longer than usual. Staff will continue to update residents on the team’s progress, and a message will be provided next week.
Next steps
It has been an extremely busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team, and we would like to thank them for their efforts. Their service to the community is greatly appreciated.
Staff will continue to monitor the weather and the transportation network over the weekend and beyond. Unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the last operational update for the response to these two back-to-back major winter storms.
Thank you for your continued support of the city’s winter operations.
Planned snowbank clearing for tonight (February 20th) and during the day tomorrow (February 21st)
OVERNIGHT (February 20th - 21st):
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
ACCEPTANCE from SUMMERGAZE to HOPE SIDE
DURING THE DAY (February 21st):
CHIMO from CHIMO to CHIMO
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
OVERNIGHT (February 20th - 21st):
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
ACCEPTANCE from SUMMERGAZE to HOPE SIDE
DURING THE DAY (February 21st):
CHIMO from CHIMO to CHIMO
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Thursday, February 20 - Afternoon
It’s been a week since the first of two major winter storms blanketed Ottawa with about 70 centimetres of snow, and the Roads and Parking Services team has been hard at work ever since! Although the snowstorms are in the rear-view mirror now, winter operations keep moving forward to ensure the transportation network is safe and passable for all users.
Forecast and conditions
Periods of light snow are expected this afternoon and will continue until late this evening with winds at 20 kilometres per hour. Minimal snow accumulation is expected.
Transportation network conditions and Winter Operation's Team response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. The focus today is on sidewalks and snow removal. Crews are working 24 hours a day on restoring the transportation network and snow removal. There is still a lot to accomplish, and your patience is appreciated.
The sidewalk network remains snow packed and problem spots have been identified in some areas of the city. Crews continue to use blowers to widen and clean up the sidewalks and are beginning to transition to a blade attachment to plow/scrape the remaining snow. They are also applying materials to help restore them; however, multiple passes will be required, as they currently do not meet the City’s Maintenance Quality Standards.
The team continues to clean up bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian island and corners.
Given the snow packed sidewalks and continued cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Snow removal operations
The team continues their work, day and night, on snow removal operations throughout the City. A message on the team’s progress will be provided tomorrow.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services is hard at work restoring the transportation network and snow removal, and will provide an update on the winter operation team’s progress tomorrow.
It’s been a week since the first of two major winter storms blanketed Ottawa with about 70 centimetres of snow, and the Roads and Parking Services team has been hard at work ever since! Although the snowstorms are in the rear-view mirror now, winter operations keep moving forward to ensure the transportation network is safe and passable for all users.
Forecast and conditions
Periods of light snow are expected this afternoon and will continue until late this evening with winds at 20 kilometres per hour. Minimal snow accumulation is expected.
Transportation network conditions and Winter Operation's Team response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. The focus today is on sidewalks and snow removal. Crews are working 24 hours a day on restoring the transportation network and snow removal. There is still a lot to accomplish, and your patience is appreciated.
The sidewalk network remains snow packed and problem spots have been identified in some areas of the city. Crews continue to use blowers to widen and clean up the sidewalks and are beginning to transition to a blade attachment to plow/scrape the remaining snow. They are also applying materials to help restore them; however, multiple passes will be required, as they currently do not meet the City’s Maintenance Quality Standards.
The team continues to clean up bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian island and corners.
Given the snow packed sidewalks and continued cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Snow removal operations
The team continues their work, day and night, on snow removal operations throughout the City. A message on the team’s progress will be provided tomorrow.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services is hard at work restoring the transportation network and snow removal, and will provide an update on the winter operation team’s progress tomorrow.
Winter Operations Update - Wednesday, February 19 – Afternoon
The Roads and Parking Services team is actively working on restoring the transportation network. It’s a process, and it’s taking time, but they are working around the clock to complete the cleanup.
Forecast and conditions
There’s no snow in today’s forecast! A mix of sun and cloud today with winds up to 15 kilometres per hour.
Transportation network conditions and our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. The focus today is on sidewalks, snow removal and the remaining cleanup.
They are actively working on addressing the issues caused by the blowing and drifting snow since Sunday’s winter storm. Crews are working 24 hours a day (dayshift works from 7 am to 7 pm and the nightshift is in from 7 pm to 7 am) and will continue until the transportation network has been restored.
As I mentioned in my earlier post, the sidewalk/pathway network has been slowly opening up, however, they areas are snow packed. Crews are using blowers to widen and clean up the sidewalks which slows operations down. Once the sidewalk has been opened and widened, additional passes will be required to plow/scape the remaining snow. Crews will than also applying materials to help restore them to meet the City’s Maintenance Quality Standards.
The priority roads and residential streets are in good condition. Although the team has opened up most bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian island and corners, there are still some localized problem spots that need to be addressed.
Given the volume of snow that remains on the transportation network and continued cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Snow removal operations
Yesterday, the Roads and Parking Services team began snow removal operations throughout the City. A message on the team’s progress will be provided later this week.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services continues its work on restoring the transportation network, and staff will provide a brief update on the team’s progress tomorrow. In the forecast tomorrow, there’s a possibility of flurries in the afternoon, and should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
Thank you for your continued support of the City’s winter operations.
Update Regarding Sidewalk and Pathway Clearing- February 19th, 2025
I have been receiving many calls and emails regarding a number of sidewalks and pathways that have not yet been cleared in many areas of the ward. Thank you to those residents who have reached out to share these locations with me.
I have just heard back from our Roads Dept. who have advised that the contractor has had multiple sidewalk plows breakdown which is what has caused the delay in clearing the pathways and sidewalks. Due to the amount of snow received, the contractor has been unsuccessful in obtaining replacement machinery and have been working with the 3 units (out of 6) that are still operational while the broken equipment is being repaired. They are expecting 2 more sidewalk plows to be back in service by the end of the day today and those units will be put into operation once they arrive.
I am extremely disappointed and share your frustrations with the lack of service that has been provided this week since the last storm has ended. Please know that I do not consider this an acceptable level of service for Kanata South taxpayers, and I will be meeting with the Director of Roads and Parking Services to ensure that these issues are addressed with the contractor and plans are put in place to avoid this happening in the future.
Staff are still working around the clock to clear the snow and snowbank removals are beginning this week in the ward. It will unfortunately still take some time for all the sidewalks and pathways to be cleared given that the sidewalk plows move at a much slower pace to clear the amount of snow that remains.
Thank you for your understanding and continued patience as the cleanup effort continues.
I have been receiving many calls and emails regarding a number of sidewalks and pathways that have not yet been cleared in many areas of the ward. Thank you to those residents who have reached out to share these locations with me.
I have just heard back from our Roads Dept. who have advised that the contractor has had multiple sidewalk plows breakdown which is what has caused the delay in clearing the pathways and sidewalks. Due to the amount of snow received, the contractor has been unsuccessful in obtaining replacement machinery and have been working with the 3 units (out of 6) that are still operational while the broken equipment is being repaired. They are expecting 2 more sidewalk plows to be back in service by the end of the day today and those units will be put into operation once they arrive.
I am extremely disappointed and share your frustrations with the lack of service that has been provided this week since the last storm has ended. Please know that I do not consider this an acceptable level of service for Kanata South taxpayers, and I will be meeting with the Director of Roads and Parking Services to ensure that these issues are addressed with the contractor and plans are put in place to avoid this happening in the future.
Staff are still working around the clock to clear the snow and snowbank removals are beginning this week in the ward. It will unfortunately still take some time for all the sidewalks and pathways to be cleared given that the sidewalk plows move at a much slower pace to clear the amount of snow that remains.
Thank you for your understanding and continued patience as the cleanup effort continues.
Planned Snowbank Clearing- Daytime
February 19th, 2025
February 19th, 2025
Planned snowbank clearing during the day tomorrow (February 20th).
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
DAYTIME (February 20th):
SAUBLE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
YOHO from KOKANEE to KOKANEE
KOKANEE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Please keep in mind operations can be delayed for various reasons as the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks quickly and safely.
DAYTIME (February 20th):
SAUBLE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
YOHO from KOKANEE to KOKANEE
KOKANEE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Planned Snowbank Clearing - Overnight
February 18th, 2025
February 18th, 2025
Planned snowbank clearing overnight tonight (February 18th).
Please keep in mind this can be delayed for various reasons and the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks as quickly and safely as possible.
OVERNIGHT (February 18th):
GRASSY PLAINS from BRIDGESTONE to STONEHAVEN
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to ACCEPTANCE
SUMMERGAZE from ACCEPTANCE to SUMMITVIEW
SUMMITVIEW from DEAD END to STONEHAVEN
SUMMITVIEW from SUMMERGAZE to PINELOCK
CROWNRIDGE from GRASSY PLAINS to MEADOWBREEZE
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Please keep in mind this can be delayed for various reasons and the winter operations team is working as hard as possible to clear the snowbanks as quickly and safely as possible.
OVERNIGHT (February 18th):
GRASSY PLAINS from BRIDGESTONE to STONEHAVEN
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to GRASSY PLAINS
MEADOWBREEZE from CROWNRIDGE to ACCEPTANCE
SUMMERGAZE from ACCEPTANCE to SUMMITVIEW
SUMMITVIEW from DEAD END to STONEHAVEN
SUMMITVIEW from SUMMERGAZE to PINELOCK
CROWNRIDGE from GRASSY PLAINS to MEADOWBREEZE
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out at 613-580-2752 or [email protected]
Winter Operations Update - Tuesday, February 18 – Afternoon
The Roads and Parking Services team has been busy and still hard at work cleaning up from the aftermath of this weekend’s winter wallop. Significant winds have been relentless with no sign of easing up until tomorrow. The blowing snow is creating snow drifts as high as 5 feet on some sections of the sidewalk network and much higher on roadways in open spaces, especially in rural areas of the city. With drifts this high, it takes larger equipment to come in and remove the snow before a sidewalk plow or grader can clear and open up the transportation network. This has slowed down operations; however, crews are doing their best under these extremely challenging conditions. As a reminder, cleanup and snow removal will take several weeks to complete. Understanding and patience are key as staff continues to work.
Forecast and conditions
A mix of sun and cloud today with a chance of flurries. Winds will be 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40, causing blowing and drifting snow in localized areas of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network.
Transportation network conditions and our response
The sustained wind has made it difficult to efficiently restore the transportation network to the normal standards we maintain. Staff knows the snowbanks are high, the roads are narrow, and some sidewalks are not clear, but rest assured, they are actively working on addressing the issues created by the blowing and drifting snow across the transportation network. They also have been hard at work on the transitway, park and rides and bus stops where snow drifts have also been an issue. Their biggest challenge—the wind! Once a plow or sidewalk machine has passed, in some areas of the city, it quickly looks like it hasn’t been there. There’s a lot to accomplish, and it is going to take some time, but crews will keep going until the transportation network has been restored.
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. The priority roads are in good condition, with snow-covered, icy spots reported in some areas due to blowing and drifting snow. Since Sunday, residential streets have been plowed twice, and conditions are currently snow packed. Crews continue to clear blowing and drifting snow from the sidewalk network using blowers which has significantly slowed operations. The use of blowers also requires a second pass to scrape the sidewalk clean after the blower has been through.
The team has opened up most bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian island and corners, but will have to return to address issues created by blowing and drifting snow and complete a full clean up.
Given the significant winds, blowing and drifting snow and continued cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Snow removal operations
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for snow removal operations throughout the City. Keep an eye out on my social media platforms as they will be posted once we receive updates on timing and locations.
Resident support is required
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind vehicles and please never pass snow removal vehicles.
- Please help keep streets clear and avoid shoveling snow onto the roadway, bike lanes, sidewalks, pathways and parks as it slows down winter operations.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue its work on restoring the transportation network. They appreciate your understanding as the team navigates the challenging conditions the wind is creating.
Winter Operations Update - Monday, February 17 - Morning
Over the last couple of days, Ottawa has received just over 70 centimetres of snow. The Roads and Parking Services team have not had a minute to take a breath, they have kept going and going and going. Did you know that it’s 40,000 kilometres to travel all the way around the earth once? Crews have travelled over 62,000 kilometres since the first storm arrived in Ottawa. That means operators have driven the equivalent of going all the way around the earth and then some – in a snowstorm!
Understanding and patience is key over the coming days as crews begin the cleanup today. Although it has stopped snowing, there is significant blowing and drifting snow and it’s wreaking havoc on the transportation network. Crews are doing their best, however, they recognize snowbanks are high, sidewalks are still snow covered and roads are narrow. Cleanup will take several days to complete and it remains challenging to get around the city today.
Given the amount of snow the city received and cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Forecast and conditions
It will be mainly cloudy today and the wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50, causing blowing and drifting snow in localized areas of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network.
Winter Operations Team Response
In the aftermath of the storm, supervisors continue to monitor the conditions of transportation network. Today, crews will focus on cleaning up the entire transportation network from yesterday’s snowfall. They will also take care of any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. There’s a lot to accomplish, and it is going to take some time, but crews will keep going until the transportation network has been restored.
As a reminder, Ottawa got a lot of snow, and the wind is creating significant blowing and drifting snow, so crews need extra time to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient.
Snow removal operations
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for selective snow removal operations throughout the City. A message will be provided tomorrow on the exact timing, locations and the planned schedule.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am this morning. Residents are reminded to sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts or download the City of Ottawa app to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Resident support is required
Next steps
This has been a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team and the work continues to ensure the transportation network keeps Ottawa moving.
Today is Family Day and many operators and support staff have missed time with their families this weekend. I’d like to acknowledge their dedication, perseverance, ongoing hard work, and unwavering commitment to the community.
Understanding and patience is key over the coming days as crews begin the cleanup today. Although it has stopped snowing, there is significant blowing and drifting snow and it’s wreaking havoc on the transportation network. Crews are doing their best, however, they recognize snowbanks are high, sidewalks are still snow covered and roads are narrow. Cleanup will take several days to complete and it remains challenging to get around the city today.
Given the amount of snow the city received and cleanup efforts, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect until further notice.
Forecast and conditions
It will be mainly cloudy today and the wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50, causing blowing and drifting snow in localized areas of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network.
Winter Operations Team Response
In the aftermath of the storm, supervisors continue to monitor the conditions of transportation network. Today, crews will focus on cleaning up the entire transportation network from yesterday’s snowfall. They will also take care of any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. There’s a lot to accomplish, and it is going to take some time, but crews will keep going until the transportation network has been restored.
As a reminder, Ottawa got a lot of snow, and the wind is creating significant blowing and drifting snow, so crews need extra time to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient.
Snow removal operations
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for selective snow removal operations throughout the City. A message will be provided tomorrow on the exact timing, locations and the planned schedule.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am this morning. Residents are reminded to sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts or download the City of Ottawa app to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Resident support is required
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind vehicles – please never pass working vehicles.
- Please help keep our streets clear and avoid shoveling snow onto the roadway, bike lanes, sidewalks, pathways and parks as it slows down operations.
- If tomorrow is your waste collection day, please place garbage, recycling, and organic bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks.
- With all that snow out there, it’s an exciting time to play, build snow forts and snowmen. It’s important children always do fun winter activities in the backyard and not on snowbanks along the road where our snowplow operators are working.
Next steps
This has been a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team and the work continues to ensure the transportation network keeps Ottawa moving.
Today is Family Day and many operators and support staff have missed time with their families this weekend. I’d like to acknowledge their dedication, perseverance, ongoing hard work, and unwavering commitment to the community.
Winter Operations Update - Sunday, February 16 – Morning
Key Points:
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing., efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. The heaviest snow is expected today with total snowfall accumulations of 20 to 30 centimetres possible and more in localized areas
- Sidewalk crews are using blowers due to high snow accumulation and blowing snow, which requires a second pass to scrape the sidewalks clean.
- The Winter Operations Team anticipates missing winter maintenance timeline objectives, requiring multiple passes to clear and treat the transportation network due to heavy snowfall, and blowing and drifting snow, but crews are working in full force.
Keep reading for the full update;
Crews have been out all night clearing and treating the transportation network. As expected, snow began yesterday afternoon, and as of early this morning, the Ottawa Airport reported 5 centimetres had fallen with higher amounts in localized areas. But that was just the start; there is much more to come. The Significant Weather Event remains in effect as snow clearing and treating operations are taking longer than usual.
The City knows operations will be slow going today and residents are reminded to be patient and understand that it will be challenging to get around the city during this event and beyond.
Forecast and Conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. The heaviest snow is expected today with total snowfall accumulations of 20 to 30 centimetres possible and more in localized areas. When snowfall rates are at their peak, the snow will be accumulating quickly. The wind will be 40 kilometres per hour gusting to 60, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas, particularly in the rural parts of that city.
Conditions will rapidly deteriorate this morning as the heaviest snow and blowing snow moves through the region. Travel will be hazardous and is not recommended. If you must be out, please exercise extreme caution when using the transportation network.
The Office of Emergency Management is in a state of “Monitoring” and ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Given the extent of the impacts of this second storm and to increase coordination of efforts across all service areas, Public Works has activated its emergency command centre.
Winter Operations Team Response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network throughout the day, into the evening and overnight. All resources have been deployed. Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. The team will move into residential neighbourhoods this morning and will continue through the afternoon to treat and clear streets. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift left off and work their way through the entire transportation network again.
The sidewalk crews are out in full force and the team has switched to blowers to deal with high accumulation amounts and blowing snow. The use of blowers also requires a second pass to scrape the sidewalk clean after the blower has been through. As a result, it takes more time to clear the sidewalk network to the standard we typically maintain.
The Winter Operations Team knows that they will not be meeting winter maintenance timeline objectives and anticipate that multiple passes will be required to clear and treat conditions on the transportation network. Given the snowfall rate and the significant blowing and drifting snow, once a plow has passed, it will very quickly look like it hasn’t been there, but rest assured, crews are out in full force. As a reminder, we expect to be responding to this major winter weather event for several days as operations are taking longer than usual.
An extended winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until further notice. The extension to the standard winter weather parking ban is essential for the support of our operations. We will be monitoring the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network and will provide an update on when the parking ban will be lifted as this weather system tapers off this evening.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, the city encourages those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Service impacts
For information about service impacts as it relates to today’s weather event, please visit Ottawa.ca
Resident support is required
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 24 hours and beyond. Conditions are making it very difficult to navigate, but rest assured, operators working hard to stay ahead of this storm.
I am committed to keeping you informed as this system moves through the region, and I will provide another update later today about when the Winter Weather Parking Ban will be lifted.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as the team responds to this major winter event.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing., efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. The heaviest snow is expected today with total snowfall accumulations of 20 to 30 centimetres possible and more in localized areas
- Sidewalk crews are using blowers due to high snow accumulation and blowing snow, which requires a second pass to scrape the sidewalks clean.
- The Winter Operations Team anticipates missing winter maintenance timeline objectives, requiring multiple passes to clear and treat the transportation network due to heavy snowfall, and blowing and drifting snow, but crews are working in full force.
Keep reading for the full update;
Crews have been out all night clearing and treating the transportation network. As expected, snow began yesterday afternoon, and as of early this morning, the Ottawa Airport reported 5 centimetres had fallen with higher amounts in localized areas. But that was just the start; there is much more to come. The Significant Weather Event remains in effect as snow clearing and treating operations are taking longer than usual.
The City knows operations will be slow going today and residents are reminded to be patient and understand that it will be challenging to get around the city during this event and beyond.
Forecast and Conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. The heaviest snow is expected today with total snowfall accumulations of 20 to 30 centimetres possible and more in localized areas. When snowfall rates are at their peak, the snow will be accumulating quickly. The wind will be 40 kilometres per hour gusting to 60, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas, particularly in the rural parts of that city.
Conditions will rapidly deteriorate this morning as the heaviest snow and blowing snow moves through the region. Travel will be hazardous and is not recommended. If you must be out, please exercise extreme caution when using the transportation network.
The Office of Emergency Management is in a state of “Monitoring” and ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Given the extent of the impacts of this second storm and to increase coordination of efforts across all service areas, Public Works has activated its emergency command centre.
Winter Operations Team Response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network throughout the day, into the evening and overnight. All resources have been deployed. Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. The team will move into residential neighbourhoods this morning and will continue through the afternoon to treat and clear streets. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift left off and work their way through the entire transportation network again.
The sidewalk crews are out in full force and the team has switched to blowers to deal with high accumulation amounts and blowing snow. The use of blowers also requires a second pass to scrape the sidewalk clean after the blower has been through. As a result, it takes more time to clear the sidewalk network to the standard we typically maintain.
The Winter Operations Team knows that they will not be meeting winter maintenance timeline objectives and anticipate that multiple passes will be required to clear and treat conditions on the transportation network. Given the snowfall rate and the significant blowing and drifting snow, once a plow has passed, it will very quickly look like it hasn’t been there, but rest assured, crews are out in full force. As a reminder, we expect to be responding to this major winter weather event for several days as operations are taking longer than usual.
An extended winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until further notice. The extension to the standard winter weather parking ban is essential for the support of our operations. We will be monitoring the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network and will provide an update on when the parking ban will be lifted as this weather system tapers off this evening.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, the city encourages those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Service impacts
For information about service impacts as it relates to today’s weather event, please visit Ottawa.ca
Resident support is required
- Conditions will be hazardous and non-essential travel should be avoided. For those who must travel, please give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass working vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please help keep our streets clear and avoid shoveling snow onto the roadway, bike lanes, sidewalks, pathways and parks as it slows down our operations.
- With all that snow out there, it’s an exciting time to play, build snow forts and snowmen. It’s important children always do fun winter activities in the backyard and not on snowbanks along the road where snowplow operators are working.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 24 hours and beyond. Conditions are making it very difficult to navigate, but rest assured, operators working hard to stay ahead of this storm.
I am committed to keeping you informed as this system moves through the region, and I will provide another update later today about when the Winter Weather Parking Ban will be lifted.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as the team responds to this major winter event.
Winter Operations Update
February 14th, 2025
February 14th, 2025
Forecast and conditions
It will be mainly sunny today and the wind will be 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40, causing blowing and drifting snow in localized areas of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network.
Given the amount of snow we received, the cleanup efforts required and more snow on the way, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. Today, crews will focus on cleaning up the entire transportation network from yesterday’s snowfall. They will also take care of any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. There’s a lot to accomplish, and it is going to take some, but crews will keep going until the transportation network has been restored.
As a reminder, Ottawa got a lot of snow, and the wind is creating localized blowing and drifting snow, so crews need extra time to get through the entire transportation network. Your patience is appreciated.
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident support is required
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is currently tracking another significant winter storm heading toward the Ottawa region. Once crews have finished cleanup from yesterday’s storm, they will take some much-needed time to rest so they are ready to respond when the next system moves through.
Crews have been hard at work for over 36 hours, demonstrating dedication, and the ability to adapt to challenging weather conditions. Their ongoing efforts during this significant winter storm are truly appreciated.
It will be mainly sunny today and the wind will be 20 kilometres per hour gusting to 40, causing blowing and drifting snow in localized areas of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network.
Given the amount of snow we received, the cleanup efforts required and more snow on the way, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. Today, crews will focus on cleaning up the entire transportation network from yesterday’s snowfall. They will also take care of any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. There’s a lot to accomplish, and it is going to take some, but crews will keep going until the transportation network has been restored.
As a reminder, Ottawa got a lot of snow, and the wind is creating localized blowing and drifting snow, so crews need extra time to get through the entire transportation network. Your patience is appreciated.
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident support is required
- Please help keep streets clear and avoid shoveling snow onto the roadway, bike lanes, sidewalks, pathways and parks as it slows down operations.
- With all that snow out there, it’s an exciting time to play, build snow forts and snowmen. It’s important children always do fun winter activities in the backyard and not on snowbanks along the road where snowplow operators are working.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is currently tracking another significant winter storm heading toward the Ottawa region. Once crews have finished cleanup from yesterday’s storm, they will take some much-needed time to rest so they are ready to respond when the next system moves through.
Crews have been hard at work for over 36 hours, demonstrating dedication, and the ability to adapt to challenging weather conditions. Their ongoing efforts during this significant winter storm are truly appreciated.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Day 2
February 14th, 2025
February 14th, 2025
There city has called another Parking ban today Friday February 14, from 10am to 7 pm.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in.
The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
During the period of time when the winter weather parking ban is not in effect, you can support our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Thank you
Winter Operations Update - February 13th, 2025 - Morning
The city woke up to 17 centimetres of snow and there is still much more to come. We haven’t seen snow like this since 2022 and although this amount of snow in such a short period is uncommon, the Roads and Parking Services team is prepared and will continue working as this system moves through the region. Please remember, this is not your typical storm, and operations will take longer than usual.
Forecast and conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. Snow will be heavy at times with up to 20 centimetres possible before tapering off this afternoon. With the daytime high forecasted at minus 1, there is a risk of freezing drizzle this afternoon. The wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 60, causing significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas.
Heavy snowfall and local blowing snow will create near zero visibility and travel should be avoided. If you must be out, please exercise extreme caution when using the transportation network.
The Office of Emergency Management is in a state of “Monitoring” and ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Given the current condition of the transportation network and understanding operations are taking longer than usual, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network. Crews have been working nonstop overnight and the dayshift has picked up right where the nightshift left off. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear and treat sidewalks, arterial roads and the winter cycling network. The Roads Supervisor has advised that crews began clearing the residential neighbourhoods earlier this morning and will continue through the evening to treat and clear streets.
Our sidewalk crews are out in full force, and in some areas, they will switch to blowers to deal with high accumulation amounts due to blowing snow. This type of equipment takes more time to clear the sidewalk network.
As a reminder, there is a lot of snow, and some areas of the region are experiencing significant blowing and drifting snow, so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient.
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway. As a reminder, there will be a second winter parking ban in effect tomorrow from 10 am to 7 pm.
Residents can stay in the know about winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Service impacts
For information about service impacts as it relates to today’s weather event, please visit Ottawa.ca
Resident support is required
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services team will continue its work on restoring the transportation network. Conditions are making things difficult to navigate, but rest assured, operators are hard at work doing everything they can to stay ahead of this storm.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as the team continues to respond to this major winter event.
Forecast and conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region. Snow will be heavy at times with up to 20 centimetres possible before tapering off this afternoon. With the daytime high forecasted at minus 1, there is a risk of freezing drizzle this afternoon. The wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 60, causing significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas.
Heavy snowfall and local blowing snow will create near zero visibility and travel should be avoided. If you must be out, please exercise extreme caution when using the transportation network.
The Office of Emergency Management is in a state of “Monitoring” and ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Given the current condition of the transportation network and understanding operations are taking longer than usual, the Significant Weather Event remains in effect.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network. Crews have been working nonstop overnight and the dayshift has picked up right where the nightshift left off. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear and treat sidewalks, arterial roads and the winter cycling network. The Roads Supervisor has advised that crews began clearing the residential neighbourhoods earlier this morning and will continue through the evening to treat and clear streets.
Our sidewalk crews are out in full force, and in some areas, they will switch to blowers to deal with high accumulation amounts due to blowing snow. This type of equipment takes more time to clear the sidewalk network.
As a reminder, there is a lot of snow, and some areas of the region are experiencing significant blowing and drifting snow, so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient.
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway. As a reminder, there will be a second winter parking ban in effect tomorrow from 10 am to 7 pm.
Residents can stay in the know about winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Service impacts
For information about service impacts as it relates to today’s weather event, please visit Ottawa.ca
Resident support is required
- Safety is a priority for staff, and they will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are hazardous and residents are reminded to stay home if they are able. For those who must travel, please give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind – please never pass snow removal vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Although the parking ban will be lifted at 7 pm tonight, it is encouraged those who can, to please try to find alternate parking overnight to allow staff to efficiently clear the roads.
- If your waste collection day is tomorrow, please try to place your bins out in the morning (by 7 am) as strong winds may toss them onto the roadways or sidewalks,
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services team will continue its work on restoring the transportation network. Conditions are making things difficult to navigate, but rest assured, operators are hard at work doing everything they can to stay ahead of this storm.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as the team continues to respond to this major winter event.
Winter Weather Parking Ban
February 13th, 2025
February 13th, 2025
Just a reminder for today's Winter Weather Parking Ban from 10am to 7pm. The City has called for another parking ban tomorrow (February 14th) from 10am to 7pm (Should the forecast shift and underperform, the second ban may be called off).
The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking
Locations in Kanata South include:
- Eagleson Park and Ride (West Lot)
- Tony Graham Recreation Complex (100 Charlie Rogers Pl)
- Hazeldean Library (50 Castlefrank Rd)
The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking
Locations in Kanata South include:
- Eagleson Park and Ride (West Lot)
- Tony Graham Recreation Complex (100 Charlie Rogers Pl)
- Hazeldean Library (50 Castlefrank Rd)
Winter Weather Parking Ban for Tomorrow (February 13th)
February 12th, 2025
February 12th, 2025
There will be two back-to-back Winter Weather Parking Bans called.
These two back-to-back winter weather parking bans are essential for the support of our operations. Should the forecast shift and underperform, the second ban may be called off.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in.
The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
During the period of time when the winter weather parking ban is not in effect, you can support our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Thank you
- 10 am to 7 pm on Thursday, February 13
- 10 am to 7 pm on Friday, February 14
These two back-to-back winter weather parking bans are essential for the support of our operations. Should the forecast shift and underperform, the second ban may be called off.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in.
The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
During the period of time when the winter weather parking ban is not in effect, you can support our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Thank you
Winter Operations Update - Wednesday, February 12, 2025 – Morning
Key points:
- 30 - 40 cm of snow expected tonight into tomorrow morning
- A Parking Ban will be in effect Thursday Feb 13th from 10 am to 7 pm and Friday 14th from 10am to 7pm (unless otherwise stated)
- Please be patient as crews navigate these challenging weather conditions, There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. Service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- By declaring a Significant Weather Event, staff acknowledge that they will not be meeting their winter maintenance timeline objectives, and snow clearing and treating operations will take longer than usual.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks.
A major winter storm is on the horizon and non-essential travel during this time should be avoided. Anyone who must travel during this event is asked to plan ahead and to give themselves extra travel time.
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning, and effective immediately, the City of Ottawa is declaring a Significant Weather Event that will remain in effect until further notice.
A Significant Weather Event has been declared
A Significant Weather Event (SWE) is declared when Environment Canada issues a Weather Hazard when weather that is either occurring or approaching has the potential to pose significant danger to users of Ottawa’s transportation network.
The intent of declaring a SWE is to notify the public that because of the forecast and/or current weather conditions, it will take longer than usual to restore the transportation network to expected conditions and that caution is to be exercised when using sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network.
For more information about the Significant Weather Events program, please visit Ottawa.ca.
Forecast and Conditions
Snow is expected to start this evening and intensify overnight with the heaviest snow expected to fall Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Peak snowfall rates are expected to exceed 5 centimetres per hour with 30 to 40 centimetres forecasted before gradually tapering off on Thursday afternoon. Winds will be up to 30 kilometres per hour, gusting to 50, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas.
Travel should be avoided as rapidly accumulating snow will make conditions on the transportation network difficult to navigate and road closures are possible.
Staff Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready! Once accumulation begins, all resources will be deployed and crews will focus on treating and clearing sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Parks Maintenance staff will also be out in full force, clearing City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres.
By declaring a Significant Weather Event, staff acknowledge that they will not be meeting their winter maintenance timeline objectives, and snow clearing and treating operations will take longer than usual. Accumulation on the network will be heavy and wet and sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network will be covered with snow. This is not your typical storm, and staff anticipate that multiple passes will be required to clear and treat these conditions. Given the amount of snow expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities until crews have been able to clear the residential sidewalks and streets.
Some areas of the region will experience significant blowing and drifting snow, which makes it difficult for operators to navigate. Please be patient, as it will take time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, staff will be hard at work.
Back-to-back daytime parking bans are being called
There will be two back-to-back Winter Weather Parking Bans called. The first will be in effect from 10 am to 7 pm on Thursday, February 13 and the second will be in effect from 10 am to 7 pm on Friday, February 14. These two back-to-back winter weather parking bans are essential for the support of our operations. Should the forecast shift and underperform, the second ban may be called off.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, please try to find alternate parking during this time to prevent your vehicle from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has several parking lots available for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Needed
- Safety is a priority and staff will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions will be hazardous and non-essential travel should be avoided. For those who must travel, please give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind their vehicles – please never pass their vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar or can download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices to confirm their collection day
- During the period of time when the winter weather parking ban is not in effect, you can support our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
- Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time prepare your emergency kit.
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the forecast and transportation network this evening and overnight.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as crews navigate these very challenging weather conditions.
Winter Operations Update
February 11th, 2025
February 11th, 2025
Just a reminder to residents that main roads and arterial roads are prioritized before residential roads for winter operations. The attached graphic explains the snow removal timeline when the City of Ottawa is hit with a winter storm.
Please see below for an update from staff for a potential significant weather event coming tomorrow evening.
Earlier this morning, Environment Canada issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Ottawa Region. A significant winter storm is expected Wednesday evening into Thursday with current total snowfall amounts of 20 to 40 centimetres forecasted and snowfall rates possibly exceeding 5 centimetres per hour. That’s a lot of snow! Although confidence is increasing that the storm will impact Ottawa, there is uncertainty on the track of this low-pressure system, making the exact snowfall amounts unknown at this time.
Given the current forecast, it is very likely a Winter Weather Parking Ban will be required. The timing and duration of the ban will be determined as we get closer to the event. Residents are encouraged to stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for this winter event by getting their equipment ready and salt domes filled. Crews that are currently working on snow removal operations in select areas of the city will be reallocated to respond to this winter event, and all resources will be deployed. Meanwhile, Parks Maintenance partners will be out in full force, clearing City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast over the next 36 hours, and they will provide a another winter operations update tomorrow as they track this system moving into the region. It will include specific details on the forecast, their response and when a Winter Weather Parking Ban will be called.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the City's winter operations.
Please see below for an update from staff for a potential significant weather event coming tomorrow evening.
Earlier this morning, Environment Canada issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Ottawa Region. A significant winter storm is expected Wednesday evening into Thursday with current total snowfall amounts of 20 to 40 centimetres forecasted and snowfall rates possibly exceeding 5 centimetres per hour. That’s a lot of snow! Although confidence is increasing that the storm will impact Ottawa, there is uncertainty on the track of this low-pressure system, making the exact snowfall amounts unknown at this time.
Given the current forecast, it is very likely a Winter Weather Parking Ban will be required. The timing and duration of the ban will be determined as we get closer to the event. Residents are encouraged to stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
The Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for this winter event by getting their equipment ready and salt domes filled. Crews that are currently working on snow removal operations in select areas of the city will be reallocated to respond to this winter event, and all resources will be deployed. Meanwhile, Parks Maintenance partners will be out in full force, clearing City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations) as well as lots serving recreation centres.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast over the next 36 hours, and they will provide a another winter operations update tomorrow as they track this system moving into the region. It will include specific details on the forecast, their response and when a Winter Weather Parking Ban will be called.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the City's winter operations.
Winter Operations Update
February 7th, 2025
February 7th, 2025
We have had a week, Ottawa! Two weather advisories, a snow squall warning, cold temperatures, wind and snow, but that’s no match for the Roads and Parking Services team! They have been working nonstop and will keep going until the entire transportation network has been treated and cleared.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has lifted the Weather Advisory and Snow Squall Warning for the Ottawa region. Ottawa received approximately 10 centimetres and up to 15 centimetres in localized areas. Flurries ended this morning, and the wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50, causing significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 4 is forecasted and an overnight low of minus 14.
Due to localized blowing and drifting snow, the transportation network remains slippery and, in some areas, snow-covered. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when out walking, driving, and cycling.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network throughout the day and into the evening. Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. The team moved into residential neighbourhoods this morning and will continue through the evening to treat and clear streets. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift left off and they will focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Some areas of the region will experience significant blowing and drifting snow, which makes it difficult for operators to navigate. Please be patient, as it will take time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
Resident support is required
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network over the next 24 hours. Looking ahead to this weekend’s forecast, snow is expected on Sunday with up to 5 centimetres possible. The team will be ready to respond accordingly.
Thank you and continue to travel with care today.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has lifted the Weather Advisory and Snow Squall Warning for the Ottawa region. Ottawa received approximately 10 centimetres and up to 15 centimetres in localized areas. Flurries ended this morning, and the wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50, causing significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 4 is forecasted and an overnight low of minus 14.
Due to localized blowing and drifting snow, the transportation network remains slippery and, in some areas, snow-covered. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when out walking, driving, and cycling.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network throughout the day and into the evening. Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. The team moved into residential neighbourhoods this morning and will continue through the evening to treat and clear streets. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift left off and they will focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Some areas of the region will experience significant blowing and drifting snow, which makes it difficult for operators to navigate. Please be patient, as it will take time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
Resident support is required
- Flashing blue lights means crews are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind winter maintenance vehicles – please never pass the vehicles.
- You can support winter operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from the streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
- Become a Snow Angel! Support your community by helping someone you know who is elderly or has a disability, by clearing snow or ice from their driveway, steps or walkway. More information on the Snow Angel Program is available on Ottawa.ca.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network over the next 24 hours. Looking ahead to this weekend’s forecast, snow is expected on Sunday with up to 5 centimetres possible. The team will be ready to respond accordingly.
Thank you and continue to travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update - Thursday, February 6th - Morning
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. Snow is expected to begin this morning and will continue through the evening with 5 to 10 centimetres forecasted. There is a risk of freezing drizzle late in the afternoon and early evening. Winds will be up to 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 35 kilometres per hour, through the day and expected to pick up tonight, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas, and a risk of snow squalls overnight.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Winter Operations Team Response
This is the second winter weather event this week, but there’s no stopping the Roads and Parking Services team: They are ready!
Supervisors have been monitoring the forecast and the transportation network. Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift leaves off to continue winter operations overnight.
Staff are asking for patience as crews navigate variable weather conditions. As the snow accumulates and the winds increase, crews will have to adjust to conditions of the transportation network. Operations may take longer than usual, but rest assured, the team is hard at work.
Resident support is required
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 24 hours. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate - they will adapt and respond accordingly.
Please travel with care today.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. Snow is expected to begin this morning and will continue through the evening with 5 to 10 centimetres forecasted. There is a risk of freezing drizzle late in the afternoon and early evening. Winds will be up to 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 35 kilometres per hour, through the day and expected to pick up tonight, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas, and a risk of snow squalls overnight.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Winter Operations Team Response
This is the second winter weather event this week, but there’s no stopping the Roads and Parking Services team: They are ready!
Supervisors have been monitoring the forecast and the transportation network. Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift leaves off to continue winter operations overnight.
Staff are asking for patience as crews navigate variable weather conditions. As the snow accumulates and the winds increase, crews will have to adjust to conditions of the transportation network. Operations may take longer than usual, but rest assured, the team is hard at work.
Resident support is required
- Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind winter operations vehicles – please never pass the vehicles.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar or can download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices to confirm their collection day.
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 24 hours. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate - they will adapt and respond accordingly.
Please travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update - Tuesday, February 4
Mother Nature cued the snow right on time yesterday; it came down fast and heavy, and the Roads and Parking Services team was ready to respond! By the time it tapered off last night, the Capital received 7 centimetres with higher amounts in localized areas throughout the city.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has lifted the Weather Advisory, and the Ottawa region will be under cloudy conditions with flurries possible into the early afternoon. Winds becoming northwest at 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 40 this morning causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 7 is forecasted and an overnight low of minus 19.
Due to the cold temperature, the transportation network remains slippery, and residents are reminded to exercise caution when out walking, driving, and cycling.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring the conditions of the transportation network throughout the day and into the evening. Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. Work began in residential neighbourhoods overnight and early this morning to clear and treat streets and will continue throughout the day. The dayshift will pick up where the nightshift left off and they will focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is monitoring another system that is expected Thursday, and an update will be provided as the system unfolds.
Please consider this your last operational update for this weather event.
Travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update - Monday, February 3rd - Morning
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for today. The Ottawa region received some light snow overnight and periods of snow are expected to continue today. As the temperature rises to zero, a risk of freezing drizzle this morning is possible. Then, snow is expected to begin near noon and will continue through the afternoon and into the late evening with 5 to 10 centimetres forecasted. Winds are expected to be 15 kilometers per hour, gusting to 25 kilometers per hour, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors have been monitoring the forecast and the transportation network. Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift leaves off to continue winter operations overnight.
Please be patient as crews navigate variable weather conditions. As the temperature fluctuates and the winds increase, so will the conditions of the transportation network and crews will have to adjust accordingly. Operations may take longer than usual, but rest assured, the team is hard at work.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network throughout the day and overnight. Staff are committed to keeping you informed on the team’s progress and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
Thank you for your continued support of our winter operations.
Please travel with care today.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for today. The Ottawa region received some light snow overnight and periods of snow are expected to continue today. As the temperature rises to zero, a risk of freezing drizzle this morning is possible. Then, snow is expected to begin near noon and will continue through the afternoon and into the late evening with 5 to 10 centimetres forecasted. Winds are expected to be 15 kilometers per hour, gusting to 25 kilometers per hour, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors have been monitoring the forecast and the transportation network. Once accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift leaves off to continue winter operations overnight.
Please be patient as crews navigate variable weather conditions. As the temperature fluctuates and the winds increase, so will the conditions of the transportation network and crews will have to adjust accordingly. Operations may take longer than usual, but rest assured, the team is hard at work.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network throughout the day and overnight. Staff are committed to keeping you informed on the team’s progress and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
Thank you for your continued support of our winter operations.
Please travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update - Wednesday, January 29 - Morning
Mother Nature delivered as promised last night; it’s a winter wonderland out there, Ottawa, and it’s not over yet! The Roads and Parking Services team has been hard at work all night, and they aren’t done yet!
Forecast and conditions
As of 10 am this morning, there were 8 centimetres down with more in localized areas. Periods of snow, heavy at times, is expected through the morning with another 5 centimetres before tapering off to flurries. Winds are expected to be 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 40, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 8 is forecasted and will drop to minus 21 overnight.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network as visibility may be reduced at times.
Our response
With over 13,000 lane kilometres of roadway, over 2,500 kilometres of sidewalks and approximately 575 pieces of equipment, the winter operations dedicated crews are hard at work. Last night, once accumulation began, crews were deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Today, crews will make their way into residential neighbourhoods and continue throughout the day and into the evening. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
As a reminder, the cold temperatures and blowing snow make it difficult to clear snow and ice so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient as crews navigate these difficult conditions.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network throughout the day and overnight.
Thank you for your support of the city’s winter operations.
Please travel with care.
Forecast and conditions
As of 10 am this morning, there were 8 centimetres down with more in localized areas. Periods of snow, heavy at times, is expected through the morning with another 5 centimetres before tapering off to flurries. Winds are expected to be 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 40, causing blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 8 is forecasted and will drop to minus 21 overnight.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become icy and slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network as visibility may be reduced at times.
Our response
With over 13,000 lane kilometres of roadway, over 2,500 kilometres of sidewalks and approximately 575 pieces of equipment, the winter operations dedicated crews are hard at work. Last night, once accumulation began, crews were deployed to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Today, crews will make their way into residential neighbourhoods and continue throughout the day and into the evening. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
As a reminder, the cold temperatures and blowing snow make it difficult to clear snow and ice so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network. Please be patient as crews navigate these difficult conditions.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network throughout the day and overnight.
Thank you for your support of the city’s winter operations.
Please travel with care.
Winter Operations Update
January 27th, 2025
January 27th, 2025
Hold on to your hats, Ottawa, it’s windy out there today! No matter what Mother Nature has in store for us, the Roads and Parking Services team is always ready to respond.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region as result of southwesterly winds that developed this morning and are expected to continue into this evening. The wind is expected to be 40 kilometres per hour and gusting up to 80 kilometres before gradually decreasing tonight. These strong wind gusts could toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Power outages are possible.
Additionally, there is a risk of snow squalls and local blowing snow late this evening and after midnight with 5 to 10 centimeters possible. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling as visibility may be suddenly reduced. Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day, evening and overnight, particularly in the rural areas where there are open roadways. Resources will be deployed to clear and treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Please be patient as blowing and drifting snow will slow operations, but rest assured, crews are hard at work.
Staff are also working closely with our partners in Forestry Services who will have staff on-call should we require assistance with fallen branches or trees on the transportation network.
Resident support is required
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the next 24 hours, and if required, another update will be provided tomorrow.
Thank you for your support of our winter operations.
Please travel with care.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region as result of southwesterly winds that developed this morning and are expected to continue into this evening. The wind is expected to be 40 kilometres per hour and gusting up to 80 kilometres before gradually decreasing tonight. These strong wind gusts could toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Power outages are possible.
Additionally, there is a risk of snow squalls and local blowing snow late this evening and after midnight with 5 to 10 centimeters possible. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling as visibility may be suddenly reduced. Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day, evening and overnight, particularly in the rural areas where there are open roadways. Resources will be deployed to clear and treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Please be patient as blowing and drifting snow will slow operations, but rest assured, crews are hard at work.
Staff are also working closely with our partners in Forestry Services who will have staff on-call should we require assistance with fallen branches or trees on the transportation network.
Resident support is required
- If your waste collection day is tomorrow, please try to place your bins out in the morning (by 7 am) as strong winds may toss them onto the roadways or sidewalks
- Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time prepare your emergency kit
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the next 24 hours, and if required, another update will be provided tomorrow.
Thank you for your support of our winter operations.
Please travel with care.
Winter Operations Update
January 17th, 2025
January 17th, 2025
Winter Operations Update – January 17th (Afternoon)
Forecast and conditions
Flurries are expected to start overnight and continue through to the morning before transitioning to snow in the afternoon. Snow is expected to continue throughout the afternoon and into the early evening with up to 5 centimeters expected and possibly more in localized areas throughout the city. The temperature is expected to rise to 0 degrees with 15 kilometre winds possible, creating a wind chill near minus 7. The overnight low is expected to drop to minus 18.
Looking ahead to next week, temperatures are expected to remain cold, and Ottawa is about to go into a deep freeze for several days. The transportation network may become icy and slippery, and residents are reminded to exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the weekend. Across the City and as this event unfolds, resources will be deployed to clear treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Crews will continue to work through weekend and move into residential neighborhoods to clear and treat streets as required should we receive more snow than originally forecasted. They will also clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
As the temperature drops, crews will be out treating icy conditions on the transportation network.
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the weekend, and should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
Unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as your operational update for the weekend.
Thank you for your continued support and travel with care this weekend.
Forecast and conditions
Flurries are expected to start overnight and continue through to the morning before transitioning to snow in the afternoon. Snow is expected to continue throughout the afternoon and into the early evening with up to 5 centimeters expected and possibly more in localized areas throughout the city. The temperature is expected to rise to 0 degrees with 15 kilometre winds possible, creating a wind chill near minus 7. The overnight low is expected to drop to minus 18.
Looking ahead to next week, temperatures are expected to remain cold, and Ottawa is about to go into a deep freeze for several days. The transportation network may become icy and slippery, and residents are reminded to exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling.
Our response
Supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the weekend. Across the City and as this event unfolds, resources will be deployed to clear treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Crews will continue to work through weekend and move into residential neighborhoods to clear and treat streets as required should we receive more snow than originally forecasted. They will also clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
As the temperature drops, crews will be out treating icy conditions on the transportation network.
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the weekend, and should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
Unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as your operational update for the weekend.
Thank you for your continued support and travel with care this weekend.
Winter Operations Update
January 14th, 2025
January 14th, 2025
We did not see that coming, Ottawa! What was supposed to be a run of the mill forecast of flurries and snow showers with only 2 to 4 centimetres expected, turned into Environment Canada issuing a Weather Advisory for the evening commute and the National Capital Region receiving 8 centimetres with higher amounts in localized areas.
Forecast and conditions
Flurries are expected to continue this morning and into the afternoon. Windy conditions are expected from the west at 30 kilometres per hour, gusting to 50 kilometres.
Our response
Yesterday, once accumulation began, crews were deployed to treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network and work continued overnight. Work began in residential neighbourhoods last night and will continue throughout the day and into the evening. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the next 24 hours, and should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
Thank you for your support and patience while crews work to clear the snow from the streets and sidewalks.
Forecast and conditions
Flurries are expected to continue this morning and into the afternoon. Windy conditions are expected from the west at 30 kilometres per hour, gusting to 50 kilometres.
Our response
Yesterday, once accumulation began, crews were deployed to treat sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network and work continued overnight. Work began in residential neighbourhoods last night and will continue throughout the day and into the evening. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Next steps
Supervisors will continue to monitor the network over the next 24 hours, and should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
Thank you for your support and patience while crews work to clear the snow from the streets and sidewalks.
Winter Operations Update
December 10th, 2024
December 10th, 2024
Forecast and conditions
Freezing drizzle and foggy conditions continue today, with the temperature forecasted to rise to 5 degrees. Environment Canada has issued a Rainfall Warning for the Ottawa region https://weather.gc.ca/en/location/index.html?coords=45.403,-75.687
Precipitation is expected to transition to rain this evening and continue right through until late tomorrow morning. Rain may taper off on Wednesday morning, but it is expected to re-intensify again on Wednesday afternoon. Given the frozen ground, significant amounts of water due to snowmelt and rain could accumulate on roads and low-lying areas. Rain will be heavy at times with rainfall amounts of 30 to 40 millimetres possible before ending by Wednesday evening when rain changes to snow as temperatures drop below the freezing mark.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network. Freezing drizzle can produce a thin layer of ice creating slippery conditions that are difficult to detect on areas such as sidewalks, roads, pathways and the winter cycling network. Please adjust to the conditions of the network.
Roads and Parking Services Response
Crews will focus on cleaning up and treating residential streets and sidewalks to ensure any ice buildup is addressed as well as tidy up some areas from yesterday’s snowfall. Across the City and as this system evolves, supervisors will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network, identify any areas of concern and deploy resources as needed. With the incoming rain, we will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, Staff cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin here: https://ottawa.ca/en/living-ottawa/drinking-water-stormwater-and-wastewater/stormwater-and-drainage#section-aef8672c-2e60-437b-9671-45c8edd1ef8f
Report a blocked catch basin here: https://311.ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/service/?id=a6b185f9-d0fb-ec11-82e6-000d3a09c388
Next steps
Staff will monitor the network over the 48 hours, should the need arise, crews will be deployed as required.
The Roads and Parking Services team will keep a close eye in this rainfall event and if there are significant changes, another update may be warranted.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the City’s winter operations.
Winter Operations Update
December 9th, 2024
December 9th, 2024
Mother Nature may have got off to a slow start this year, but she’s making up for lost time. With the official start to winter still a couple of weeks away, round three of a winter event is knocking on the door carrying a mixed bag of precipitation. Who’s ready to answer? The Roads and Parking Services team, of course!
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement https://weather.gc.ca/en/location/index.html?coords=45.403,-75.687 for the Ottawa region. Precipitation expected to begin as snow with up to 5 centimetres possible. Snow is expected to become mixed with or change to freezing rain this evening before tapering to scattered flurries or freezing drizzle overnight. As temperatures are expected to remain near the freezing mark, there is a potential for freezing drizzle through the overnight hours into Tuesday, affecting the morning commute.
Changing conditions will make travel messy, be prepared to adjust and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery, especially if covered with snow.
Looking ahead to Tuesday night into Wednesday, the temperature rises above zero, and there is a significant amount of rain on the way. The Roads team is asking residents to ensure that their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, they cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
If you’re unable, please use this link to report a blocked catch basin: https://ottawa.ca/en/living-ottawa/drinking-water-stormwater-and-wastewater/stormwater-and-drainage#section-aef8672c-2e60-437b-9671-45c8edd1ef8f
Find your nearest catch basin using the city’s catch basin locator map.
The Roads and Parking Services Team Response
The salt domes have been filled, and supervisors will be out through the day and into the evening monitoring conditions. Across the City, and as this event unfolds, all resources will be deployed to clear snow and treat icy conditions on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Crews will be travelling slower than usual as freezing rain will cause icy conditions on the transportation network, but rest assured, they are hard at work.
Resident Support is Required
• Safety is a priority for staff, and they will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are messy and changing, and those who have to travel should adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
• Flashing blue lights means they are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind their vehicles – please never pass their vehicles.
• There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network. Freezing rain warnings or freezing drizzle advisories may be required as the event draws close.
They are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this freezing rain event moves into the region.
Stay safe and travel with care.
Winter Operations Update
December 5th, 2024
December 5th, 2024
Mother Nature has been hard at work for the last 24 hours and just won’t quit, but our Roads Crews are out in full force, and they won’t stop until the last snowflake has fallen and will keep going until the transportation network is all clear.
Forecast and conditions
Snow continues today with another 2 to 4 centimetres possible. Windy conditions are expected from the west at 20 kilometres per hour, gusting to 40 kilometres.
This winter event is a long, slow system, and hazardous conditions will continue today. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate. Colder temperatures are expected overnight, tomorrow and into the weekend creating icy and slippery conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. All available resources have been deployed and the dayshift has picked up right where the nightshift left off. As we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear and treat sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Work began in residential neighbourhoods to clear and treat streets earlier this morning and will continue throughout the day and into the evening. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Some areas of the region have experienced blowing snow which make it difficult for operators to navigate, please be patient as it will take time to get through the entire transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
Resident support is required
• Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
• There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
• You can support our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the day and overnight. Crews have been at it for over 24 hours, and they’re not done yet! I’d like to acknowledge their dedication, ongoing hard work, and their ability to adjust to challenging weather conditions.
As we near the tail end of this system, this will serve as the final operational update for this winter event.
Thank you for your patience and support as crews complete their operations.
Please continue to travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update - December 4th (morning)
As a follow up to the winter operations update yesterday, City Staff wanted to provide residents a brief update on the day ahead. Given the duration and timing of this winter event, and accumulation amounts remain variable, they have decided not to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. Snow will be heavy, and visibility may be reduced at times with accumulations near 10 centimetres before tapering off Thursday morning.
This is the first snow event of the season, and residents should expect hazardous conditions today. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
City staff are committed to keeping you informed as this event unfolds and will provide another update later today.
As a follow up to the winter operations update yesterday, City Staff wanted to provide residents a brief update on the day ahead. Given the duration and timing of this winter event, and accumulation amounts remain variable, they have decided not to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region. Snow will be heavy, and visibility may be reduced at times with accumulations near 10 centimetres before tapering off Thursday morning.
This is the first snow event of the season, and residents should expect hazardous conditions today. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
City staff are committed to keeping you informed as this event unfolds and will provide another update later today.
Winter Operations Update - Tuesday, December 3 - Afternoon
December 3rd, 2024
December 3rd, 2024
Forecast and conditions
Periods of snow are expected to begin tomorrow morning, and will continue through the afternoon, evening and overnight with 10 to 15 centimetres possible by Thursday morning. Given the timing of this event and accumulation amounts remain variable, staff will confirm an Overnight Winter Weather Parking Ban before 9 am tomorrow morning.
This is the first snow event of the season, and residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all transportation networks.
Our response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready, and all available resources will be deployed! They have been getting their equipment prepared and their salt domes filled. As accumulation begins, crews will be working on treating sidewalks, roads and our winter cycling network in accordance with the Council-approved Maintenance Quality Standards. Crews are mindful that ground remains soft and will make every effort to avoid damage to lawns.
As a reminder, staff are asking for your patience as operations may take longer than normal as staff are getting used to their newly assigned routes and as they adjust to the variable weather conditions.
Seasonal Closure - Chief William Commanda Bridge
Given the amount of snow in the forecast and with temperatures expected to be consistently well below zero in the days to follow, starting Wednesday morning at 7am, the bridge will be closed for the 2024/2025 winter season as it will be unsafe for public use. To ensure the safety of residents, new gates have been installed to prevent access to the bridge, as well as signage identifying the closure. City staff will monitor weather patterns and will use the gates to open and/or close the bridge during the spring and fall seasons, as required.
Resident Support is Required
• Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind snow maintenance vehicles – please never pass the vehicles.
• There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
• Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar or can download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices to confirm their collection day.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 48 hours, and they will provide another update tomorrow as they track this system moving through the region.
Do you need volunteer hours? Become a Snow Angel!
Support your community by helping someone you know who is elderly or has a disability, by clearing snow or ice from their driveway, steps or walkway. More information on the Snow Angel Program is available on Ottawa.ca
Periods of snow are expected to begin tomorrow morning, and will continue through the afternoon, evening and overnight with 10 to 15 centimetres possible by Thursday morning. Given the timing of this event and accumulation amounts remain variable, staff will confirm an Overnight Winter Weather Parking Ban before 9 am tomorrow morning.
This is the first snow event of the season, and residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all transportation networks.
Our response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready, and all available resources will be deployed! They have been getting their equipment prepared and their salt domes filled. As accumulation begins, crews will be working on treating sidewalks, roads and our winter cycling network in accordance with the Council-approved Maintenance Quality Standards. Crews are mindful that ground remains soft and will make every effort to avoid damage to lawns.
As a reminder, staff are asking for your patience as operations may take longer than normal as staff are getting used to their newly assigned routes and as they adjust to the variable weather conditions.
Seasonal Closure - Chief William Commanda Bridge
Given the amount of snow in the forecast and with temperatures expected to be consistently well below zero in the days to follow, starting Wednesday morning at 7am, the bridge will be closed for the 2024/2025 winter season as it will be unsafe for public use. To ensure the safety of residents, new gates have been installed to prevent access to the bridge, as well as signage identifying the closure. City staff will monitor weather patterns and will use the gates to open and/or close the bridge during the spring and fall seasons, as required.
Resident Support is Required
• Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind snow maintenance vehicles – please never pass the vehicles.
• There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. They are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
• Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar or can download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices to confirm their collection day.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 48 hours, and they will provide another update tomorrow as they track this system moving through the region.
Do you need volunteer hours? Become a Snow Angel!
Support your community by helping someone you know who is elderly or has a disability, by clearing snow or ice from their driveway, steps or walkway. More information on the Snow Angel Program is available on Ottawa.ca
Orientation and Training – Winter Operations: Bridlewood and Glen Cairn Communities
September 19th, 2024
September 19th, 2024
Attention Kanata South!
The City of Ottawa has contracted Webber Inc. to provide snow clearing and removal services in the Bridlewood and Glen Carin communities. Please be advised that orientation and training for winter operations will begin on September 21, 2024, and will continue through the fall.
Winter operations are a complex service, and operators need time to familiarize themselves with the equipment and the routes ahead of the 2024/2025 winter season. Be on the lookout for sidewalk machines and snowplows. Golf carts may also be used at times to assist operators in becoming oriented with the neighborhood and specific routes they will be following to winter maintain sidewalks and pathways this upcoming season. Please be patient as our operators are learning. Training is expected to continue through the fall.
The City of Ottawa has contracted Webber Inc. to provide snow clearing and removal services in the Bridlewood and Glen Carin communities. Please be advised that orientation and training for winter operations will begin on September 21, 2024, and will continue through the fall.
Winter operations are a complex service, and operators need time to familiarize themselves with the equipment and the routes ahead of the 2024/2025 winter season. Be on the lookout for sidewalk machines and snowplows. Golf carts may also be used at times to assist operators in becoming oriented with the neighborhood and specific routes they will be following to winter maintain sidewalks and pathways this upcoming season. Please be patient as our operators are learning. Training is expected to continue through the fall.
Public Works Name the Plow Campaign
September 9th, 2024
September 9th, 2024
Each winter, City of Ottawa snowplows and their operators clear and treat over 13,000 lane kilometres of roadway, which includes Highway 174 and the Transitway, to help keep Ottawa moving during the winter season. Clearing that much distance of snow is like driving from Halifax to Vancouver (and back) in a snowstorm! These hardworking snowplows deserve to be named and staff are asking children and youth, 16 and under, to help name them.
If you could name a snowplow, what would you name it? Children and youth, get your thinking toques on! Between September 9 and 30, submit your favourite snowplow name at https://bit.ly/4gia8iP part of the City’s Name the Plow campaign!
Once names are submitted, City snowplow drivers will draw a final list of names for all of Ottawa to vote on between October 14 and 21!
Visit https://bit.ly/3MFrzMI for more info!
If you could name a snowplow, what would you name it? Children and youth, get your thinking toques on! Between September 9 and 30, submit your favourite snowplow name at https://bit.ly/4gia8iP part of the City’s Name the Plow campaign!
Once names are submitted, City snowplow drivers will draw a final list of names for all of Ottawa to vote on between October 14 and 21!
Visit https://bit.ly/3MFrzMI for more info!
Parks Maintenance Summer Update
June 27th, 2024
June 27th, 2024
Parks Maintenance Summer Update
Today is the last day of school for many kids and it won’t be long before they are out in City parks every day! City parks play host to a number of events over the year and Parks Maintenance staff work hard to make sure the parks are in great shape ahead of each event. Of course, grass cutting still will continue all season long!
Grass cutting
City staff are happy to report the extreme heat has helped slow grass growth and all the zone supervisors are reporting they are now caught up after the soggy spring set them back in May.
Summer students
Staff are happy to have 119 summer students working for Parks Maintenance this year to help them keep up with litter cleanup, grass cutting, and trimming. They also paint benches, goal posts and various other park features. Over the last few years, some maintenance work has fallen behind due to COVID, and cleanup from extreme weather events, and it is great to have a full complement of students joining to help them catch up this year.
Special events
Canada Day is just days away and City parks will host a number of events. The hosting duties don’t end there, though. Parks Maintenance staff are always ready to make sure parks are in great shape before registered events. On top of regular maintenance, staff will make an extra sweep to ensure litter is picked up and attend to repairs of park features. If the event happens to include baseball, crews make sure the diamond is groomed in advance.
How residents can help
City beaches are now open and even though there are waste receptacles in place, residents are asked to take garbage home with them to help deter birds. More garbage, even in receptacles, attracts more birds. More bird activity reduces water quality and results in more beach closures. Residents are asked to take garbage home with them after they visit City parks too to deter wildlife.
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a service request https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/parks-and-trees by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help us get the job done.
Today is the last day of school for many kids and it won’t be long before they are out in City parks every day! City parks play host to a number of events over the year and Parks Maintenance staff work hard to make sure the parks are in great shape ahead of each event. Of course, grass cutting still will continue all season long!
Grass cutting
City staff are happy to report the extreme heat has helped slow grass growth and all the zone supervisors are reporting they are now caught up after the soggy spring set them back in May.
Summer students
Staff are happy to have 119 summer students working for Parks Maintenance this year to help them keep up with litter cleanup, grass cutting, and trimming. They also paint benches, goal posts and various other park features. Over the last few years, some maintenance work has fallen behind due to COVID, and cleanup from extreme weather events, and it is great to have a full complement of students joining to help them catch up this year.
Special events
Canada Day is just days away and City parks will host a number of events. The hosting duties don’t end there, though. Parks Maintenance staff are always ready to make sure parks are in great shape before registered events. On top of regular maintenance, staff will make an extra sweep to ensure litter is picked up and attend to repairs of park features. If the event happens to include baseball, crews make sure the diamond is groomed in advance.
How residents can help
City beaches are now open and even though there are waste receptacles in place, residents are asked to take garbage home with them to help deter birds. More garbage, even in receptacles, attracts more birds. More bird activity reduces water quality and results in more beach closures. Residents are asked to take garbage home with them after they visit City parks too to deter wildlife.
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a service request https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/parks-and-trees by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help us get the job done.
Summer Forestry Update
June 21st, 2024
June 21st, 2024
Summer Forestry Update
Trees in Trust
The City’s Trees in Trust program needs residents’ help to find suitable locations for street trees. Street trees are available by request on a first come, first served basis. If your City-owned street frontage lacks a tree and you have the time and commitment to help care for one, please contact the City: https://tinyurl.com/y3vbrpnj,. The deadline to get a tree planted this fall is July 1.
This program applies only to homes with street frontage (the space between your property line and the roadway) and residents are required to water the tree for the first three years after planting. Rain barrels are very helpful in collecting water for your new tree. The tree will be a minimum diameter of 50 millimetres caliper (two to three metres tall).
Tree Protection By-law
When a permit is granted to remove a tree on private property, replanting is typically required as part of the tree removal permit. Details about tree permit requirements may be found in Schedule B of the Tree Protection Bylaw - Tree Protection (By-law No. 2020-340) | City of Ottawa https://tinyurl.com/mr4843s8. This is a friendly reminder to residents and developers to please honour the terms of your permit by replanting the required number of trees.
Growing our canopy
Staff encourage residents to join in and plant trees on their own property to increase the City’s tree canopy. When selecting the right tree for the right place, it is important to be mindful of the location of your property lines. The City has many tree planting programs for streets, parks and greenspaces. If you would like a tree planted on City property, please visit Ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/299swsmjto learn more.
How residents can help
A tree delivered for the Trees in Trust program could arrive up to 3 days before planting occurs. As mentioned, staff do ask residents to help the new tree establish itself by watering when rainfall is less than 25mm a week. Residents are asked to maintain this watering schedule for the first three years after planting..
When stump grinding is completed on the City right of way in front of a home, residents are asked to water the area after they have applied the topsoil and grass seed.
With camping season now here, a friendly reminder residents to please burn firewood in the same local area where it was purchased. Bringing firewood in from other municipalities can greatly contribute to the spread of many different diseases and pests that negatively impact trees and forests. Don’t forget to confirm campfires are allowed!
Trees in Trust
The City’s Trees in Trust program needs residents’ help to find suitable locations for street trees. Street trees are available by request on a first come, first served basis. If your City-owned street frontage lacks a tree and you have the time and commitment to help care for one, please contact the City: https://tinyurl.com/y3vbrpnj,. The deadline to get a tree planted this fall is July 1.
This program applies only to homes with street frontage (the space between your property line and the roadway) and residents are required to water the tree for the first three years after planting. Rain barrels are very helpful in collecting water for your new tree. The tree will be a minimum diameter of 50 millimetres caliper (two to three metres tall).
Tree Protection By-law
When a permit is granted to remove a tree on private property, replanting is typically required as part of the tree removal permit. Details about tree permit requirements may be found in Schedule B of the Tree Protection Bylaw - Tree Protection (By-law No. 2020-340) | City of Ottawa https://tinyurl.com/mr4843s8. This is a friendly reminder to residents and developers to please honour the terms of your permit by replanting the required number of trees.
Growing our canopy
Staff encourage residents to join in and plant trees on their own property to increase the City’s tree canopy. When selecting the right tree for the right place, it is important to be mindful of the location of your property lines. The City has many tree planting programs for streets, parks and greenspaces. If you would like a tree planted on City property, please visit Ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/299swsmjto learn more.
How residents can help
A tree delivered for the Trees in Trust program could arrive up to 3 days before planting occurs. As mentioned, staff do ask residents to help the new tree establish itself by watering when rainfall is less than 25mm a week. Residents are asked to maintain this watering schedule for the first three years after planting..
When stump grinding is completed on the City right of way in front of a home, residents are asked to water the area after they have applied the topsoil and grass seed.
With camping season now here, a friendly reminder residents to please burn firewood in the same local area where it was purchased. Bringing firewood in from other municipalities can greatly contribute to the spread of many different diseases and pests that negatively impact trees and forests. Don’t forget to confirm campfires are allowed!
Parks Maintenance Spring Update: Grass cutting, Beaches, Wading Pools
June 12th, 2024
June 12th, 2024
Grass cutting
Did you know that Parks Maintenance is responsible for 3,065 hectares of green space across the City? This space is split into 286 maintenance beats. The beats cover parks and roadsides and are on various cycle lengths based on the area’s use and the City’s maintenance quality standards. Most are weekly and biweekly, some are less and destination parks such as Andrew Haydon Park, Mooney’s Bay Park and Britannia Park receive more maintenance than other locations.
The weather has presented staff challenges to start the year, but despite this they are meeting the Council-approved maintenance quality standards for frequency in 92 per cent of their beats. The grass is growing quickly and some beats are much larger than others, but they are working to catch up and expect to do so shortly. On other beats they are already on their second pass.
Beaches
Work began to prepare Petrie Island, Britannia and Mooney’s Bay beaches https://tinyurl.com/4tss5wnt shortly after the seasonal transition in April. No regular maintenance will be done at Westboro Beach as the National Capital Commission continues its redevelopment project there, but there is much to do to prepare the others for June 15. Crews started with a general cleanup of litter, branches and other debris that may have collected there over the winter. Crews then fill any holes and install seasonal garbage and recycling receptacles and picnic tables. They also cut grass, sweep the pathways and groom the sand.
Wading pools
A select number of our 55 wading pools https://tinyurl.com/y3pfs374 will open on weekends beginning June 15 with the remaining pools opening on either June 24 or July 1. Preparations began even before seasonal transition with inspections and any necessary repairs done in early April. The pools are sandblasted, loose bits of paint get removed and fresh paint is applied where necessary to freshen up the pools. Wet weather has delayed the painting but work is still on track to open on time.
How residents can help
Even though there are receptacles at City beaches, staff asks residents to take garbage home with them to help deters birds. More garbage, even in receptacles, attracts more birds. They inevitably do what they do and that reduces water quality and results in more beach closures.
Notice anything that needs our attention? Please send a service request https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/parks-and-trees by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done
Did you know that Parks Maintenance is responsible for 3,065 hectares of green space across the City? This space is split into 286 maintenance beats. The beats cover parks and roadsides and are on various cycle lengths based on the area’s use and the City’s maintenance quality standards. Most are weekly and biweekly, some are less and destination parks such as Andrew Haydon Park, Mooney’s Bay Park and Britannia Park receive more maintenance than other locations.
The weather has presented staff challenges to start the year, but despite this they are meeting the Council-approved maintenance quality standards for frequency in 92 per cent of their beats. The grass is growing quickly and some beats are much larger than others, but they are working to catch up and expect to do so shortly. On other beats they are already on their second pass.
Beaches
Work began to prepare Petrie Island, Britannia and Mooney’s Bay beaches https://tinyurl.com/4tss5wnt shortly after the seasonal transition in April. No regular maintenance will be done at Westboro Beach as the National Capital Commission continues its redevelopment project there, but there is much to do to prepare the others for June 15. Crews started with a general cleanup of litter, branches and other debris that may have collected there over the winter. Crews then fill any holes and install seasonal garbage and recycling receptacles and picnic tables. They also cut grass, sweep the pathways and groom the sand.
Wading pools
A select number of our 55 wading pools https://tinyurl.com/y3pfs374 will open on weekends beginning June 15 with the remaining pools opening on either June 24 or July 1. Preparations began even before seasonal transition with inspections and any necessary repairs done in early April. The pools are sandblasted, loose bits of paint get removed and fresh paint is applied where necessary to freshen up the pools. Wet weather has delayed the painting but work is still on track to open on time.
How residents can help
Even though there are receptacles at City beaches, staff asks residents to take garbage home with them to help deters birds. More garbage, even in receptacles, attracts more birds. They inevitably do what they do and that reduces water quality and results in more beach closures.
Notice anything that needs our attention? Please send a service request https://ottawa.ca/en/3-1-1/report-or-request/parks-and-trees by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done
Spring and Summer Operational Update
May 24th, 2024
May 24th, 2024
With an early start to spring this year, crews were able to get to work at the end of March to clean up the mess that winter left behind on the transportation network. Although there was a brief pause to respond to the spring snowstorm, they have been working diligently to meet the guidelines outlined in the Council-approved Maintenance Quality Standards (MQS).
With more than 2,500 kilometers of sidewalks and over 6,000 kilometers of roads swept, staff are happy to announce that this year’s Street Sweeping Operations were completed on Friday, May 24, 2024, ahead of schedule! In the coming days, you may see sweepers performing touch ups in isolated neighbourhoods where parked cars or other obstructions prevented our team from completing sweeping work earlier on during the operations.
A special thank you goes out to the operators that worked tirelessly on cleaning up sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network as well as the members of Council, their staff and the residents of our City who supported staff through these operations.
Operational Forecast: Summer Edition
Now that street sweeping operations are in the rear-view and summer is just around the corner, Roads and Parking Services is now directing its operations towards summer activities. This summer, residents may see crews out in your community working on:
The Roads and Parking Services team are about more than just winter operations! While their summer team may be smaller than what you see over the winter months, it’s still mighty and you can be sure that they will continue working on keeping the transportation network safe. You too, can help by reporting concerns by visiting Ottawa.ca/311. Your request will be assessed before work is scheduled and performed in accordance with the Maintenance Quality Standards.
With more than 2,500 kilometers of sidewalks and over 6,000 kilometers of roads swept, staff are happy to announce that this year’s Street Sweeping Operations were completed on Friday, May 24, 2024, ahead of schedule! In the coming days, you may see sweepers performing touch ups in isolated neighbourhoods where parked cars or other obstructions prevented our team from completing sweeping work earlier on during the operations.
A special thank you goes out to the operators that worked tirelessly on cleaning up sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network as well as the members of Council, their staff and the residents of our City who supported staff through these operations.
Operational Forecast: Summer Edition
Now that street sweeping operations are in the rear-view and summer is just around the corner, Roads and Parking Services is now directing its operations towards summer activities. This summer, residents may see crews out in your community working on:
- Maintaining gravel roads
- Cutting roadside grass in rural areas where there are ditches, and no curbs (along with Parks Maintenance Services who are working in other urban and suburban neighbourhoods)
- Cleaning rural ditches
- Performing sidewalk and asphalt repairs
- Repairing pieces of the city’s ironworks
- Regular street sweeping of arterial and collector roadways
- Filling potholes
- Maintaining City-owned culverts (those that run underneath City roads)
- Maintaining more than 2,500 bike parking facilities on the public right-of-way
- Getting ready for winter (yes, you read that right but we’ll come back to this later this year!)
- And the list goes on….
The Roads and Parking Services team are about more than just winter operations! While their summer team may be smaller than what you see over the winter months, it’s still mighty and you can be sure that they will continue working on keeping the transportation network safe. You too, can help by reporting concerns by visiting Ottawa.ca/311. Your request will be assessed before work is scheduled and performed in accordance with the Maintenance Quality Standards.
Parks Maintenance Spring Update
May 23rd, 2024
May 23rd, 2024
Parks Maintenance Spring Update
Most sports fields are now open for the season, except for those listed on ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/nhrdk4fa. Grass cutting is not just a big part of the preparation work before the season, it is also integral to maintaining the fields for use throughout the entire season.
Parks
Grass is cut in city parks every 7 to 14 days. Issues that could affect the level of service include weather, grass growth rate, soil conditions, staffing or vehicle levels, emergency responses and park designation. Residents can learn the designations of the various parks in their ward by visiting geoOttawa https://maps.ottawa.ca/geoottawa/. Regular mowing is good for the health of the turf making it denser, discouraging weeds. Staff aim to keep grass height in city parks between 60 and 75 and never more than 100 millimetres unless the area is in a designated naturalization area.
Sports fields
Staff maintain the turfgrass in our 529 sports fields and 328 ball diamonds every 3 to 7 days. The same issues listed above can affect staff’s schedules for sports fields as well. Sport fields also have designations based on the events and activities they usually attract. Regular mowing creates safer playing conditions on the fields. Staff aim to keep the city’s sports fields’ grass at a height of 60 millimetres with a maximum height of 80 to 90 millimetres.
Naturalization
Designated naturalized areas reduce the amount of turf we mow in various City parks and other green spaces. Staff typically mow naturalized areas one to two times a year to control invasive species and other vegetation control. These bio-diverse habitats slow and help to filter surface water run-off while creating homes for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. It also helps staff improve the maintenance of the areas they do mow. Mowing in naturalized areas still occurs along vehicular, cycling or pedestrian corridors to define sight lines.
Roadside
Staff cut grass along roadsides between five to eight times a year. This is to maintain safe sightlines along roads, paths and sidewalks. Many roadsides have seen a first pass. Staff expect to have a City-wide first pass complete by the end of the week should the weather forecast allow it. Residents are reminded of requirements of Use and Care of Roads By-Law https://tinyurl.com/mwmbancc, particularly the section which covers residents’ responsibility for cutting the grass and weeds on the boulevard abutting the owner’s land .
How residents can help
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a service request https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4bby by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.
Most sports fields are now open for the season, except for those listed on ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/nhrdk4fa. Grass cutting is not just a big part of the preparation work before the season, it is also integral to maintaining the fields for use throughout the entire season.
Parks
Grass is cut in city parks every 7 to 14 days. Issues that could affect the level of service include weather, grass growth rate, soil conditions, staffing or vehicle levels, emergency responses and park designation. Residents can learn the designations of the various parks in their ward by visiting geoOttawa https://maps.ottawa.ca/geoottawa/. Regular mowing is good for the health of the turf making it denser, discouraging weeds. Staff aim to keep grass height in city parks between 60 and 75 and never more than 100 millimetres unless the area is in a designated naturalization area.
Sports fields
Staff maintain the turfgrass in our 529 sports fields and 328 ball diamonds every 3 to 7 days. The same issues listed above can affect staff’s schedules for sports fields as well. Sport fields also have designations based on the events and activities they usually attract. Regular mowing creates safer playing conditions on the fields. Staff aim to keep the city’s sports fields’ grass at a height of 60 millimetres with a maximum height of 80 to 90 millimetres.
Naturalization
Designated naturalized areas reduce the amount of turf we mow in various City parks and other green spaces. Staff typically mow naturalized areas one to two times a year to control invasive species and other vegetation control. These bio-diverse habitats slow and help to filter surface water run-off while creating homes for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. It also helps staff improve the maintenance of the areas they do mow. Mowing in naturalized areas still occurs along vehicular, cycling or pedestrian corridors to define sight lines.
Roadside
Staff cut grass along roadsides between five to eight times a year. This is to maintain safe sightlines along roads, paths and sidewalks. Many roadsides have seen a first pass. Staff expect to have a City-wide first pass complete by the end of the week should the weather forecast allow it. Residents are reminded of requirements of Use and Care of Roads By-Law https://tinyurl.com/mwmbancc, particularly the section which covers residents’ responsibility for cutting the grass and weeds on the boulevard abutting the owner’s land .
How residents can help
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a service request https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4bby by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.
Parks Maintenance Spring Update
May 14th, 2024
May 14th, 2024
These last few weeks, Parks Maintenance staff have been working tirelessly to get most ball diamonds https://tinyurl.com/nhrdk4fa open for the season as well as other amenities across the city. This post outlines all the work involved with getting sports fields, splash pads and docks ready for the summer season. Mother Nature, while still unpredictable, has cooperated enough that staff are still on track to open this week.
Sports fields
To get our 529 sports fields ready for use this week, staff have been busy for the last three weeks. In addition to mowing, staff have been conducting inspections, removing litter and installing waste receptacles. They have also cleaned paths that lead to sports fields and any parking lots attached to them. Overseeding will continue this week and aeration and fertilization starts next week. Overseeding is an effective method of weed prevention and aeration reduces the amount of compact soil, promoting healthy turf for a safe and fun season.
Splash pads
With temperatures expected in the low 20s for the upcoming long weekend, staff know some little ones will want to head to one of our 98 splash pads across the city. Many splash pads are currently open and all remaining pads will be operational by Saturday May 18th with the exception of sites where winter weather impacts have required additional repairs. Sites that are not operational will be listed on ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/yckccft6. Winter caps have been replaced by the geyser caps and water lines are being flushed out and inspected for leaks. Splash pads have multiple features that must be checked to ensure they are all working properly. Screens that were replaced over the winter have been reinstalled.
How residents can help
Notice anything that needs our attention? Please send a service request https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4b by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.
Sports fields
To get our 529 sports fields ready for use this week, staff have been busy for the last three weeks. In addition to mowing, staff have been conducting inspections, removing litter and installing waste receptacles. They have also cleaned paths that lead to sports fields and any parking lots attached to them. Overseeding will continue this week and aeration and fertilization starts next week. Overseeding is an effective method of weed prevention and aeration reduces the amount of compact soil, promoting healthy turf for a safe and fun season.
Splash pads
With temperatures expected in the low 20s for the upcoming long weekend, staff know some little ones will want to head to one of our 98 splash pads across the city. Many splash pads are currently open and all remaining pads will be operational by Saturday May 18th with the exception of sites where winter weather impacts have required additional repairs. Sites that are not operational will be listed on ottawa.ca https://tinyurl.com/yckccft6. Winter caps have been replaced by the geyser caps and water lines are being flushed out and inspected for leaks. Splash pads have multiple features that must be checked to ensure they are all working properly. Screens that were replaced over the winter have been reinstalled.
How residents can help
Notice anything that needs our attention? Please send a service request https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4b by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.
Spring Forestry Update
April 30th, 2024
April 30th, 2024
The beginning of the city’s spring tree planting season has started. Spring is a very busy season for Forestry Services staff as they also begin spring stumping operations and continue to update their tree inventory. This post will provide a summary of their operations over the coming months. In addition to these seasonal operations, regular tree maintenance such tree pruning, and tree inspections are still ongoing.
Planting
Forestry’s nursery started receiving tree stock earlier this month. With their planting list ready, the first trees have begun to be planted. Prior to planting, utility locations will be marked with flags. Every tree planted increases the tree canopy and contributes greatly to the overall health and well-being of our community.
Stumping
Stumping has begun and will run into November, weather permitting. Staff grind the stumps to make room for new trees and reduce tripping hazards in high-traffic pedestrian areas. Once the stump is ground down, topsoil and grass seed are applied.
Tree Inventory
Forestry is continuously collecting a wide range of data regarding the city tree inventory, including tree location, species, and health. An inventory of City-owned trees is an essential tool to manage these valuable assets. It helps staff with the protection and enhancement of urban and rural forests, maintaining sustainable forests for generations to come.
Resident support is required
Residents can help during seasonal operations! As mentioned earlier, flags are used to mark utility locates. Please don’t move them! Staff will remove them when they are no longer required. Also remember the flags are used to mark utilities, not WHERE the tree will be planted. These flags are critical for both our planting and stumping operations.
A tree delivered for the Trees in Trust program could arrive up to 3 days before planting occurs. Residents can help the new tree establish itself by watering it when rainfall is less than 25mm a week. Residents are asked to maintain this watering schedule for the first three years of the tree’s life.
When stump grinding is completed on the City right of way in front of a home, we ask residents to water the area after we have applied the topsoil and grass seed.
Planting
Forestry’s nursery started receiving tree stock earlier this month. With their planting list ready, the first trees have begun to be planted. Prior to planting, utility locations will be marked with flags. Every tree planted increases the tree canopy and contributes greatly to the overall health and well-being of our community.
Stumping
Stumping has begun and will run into November, weather permitting. Staff grind the stumps to make room for new trees and reduce tripping hazards in high-traffic pedestrian areas. Once the stump is ground down, topsoil and grass seed are applied.
Tree Inventory
Forestry is continuously collecting a wide range of data regarding the city tree inventory, including tree location, species, and health. An inventory of City-owned trees is an essential tool to manage these valuable assets. It helps staff with the protection and enhancement of urban and rural forests, maintaining sustainable forests for generations to come.
Resident support is required
Residents can help during seasonal operations! As mentioned earlier, flags are used to mark utility locates. Please don’t move them! Staff will remove them when they are no longer required. Also remember the flags are used to mark utilities, not WHERE the tree will be planted. These flags are critical for both our planting and stumping operations.
A tree delivered for the Trees in Trust program could arrive up to 3 days before planting occurs. Residents can help the new tree establish itself by watering it when rainfall is less than 25mm a week. Residents are asked to maintain this watering schedule for the first three years of the tree’s life.
When stump grinding is completed on the City right of way in front of a home, we ask residents to water the area after we have applied the topsoil and grass seed.
City-Wide Street Sweeping Operations
April 16th, 2024
April 16th, 2024
There are no parking restrictions during city-wide street sweeping operations.
How long will it take?
While Maintenance Quality Standards (MQS) require staff to complete street sweeping operations by May 31st, crews started a little earlier this year and will continue to work diligently over the coming weeks to complete the spring cleanup as soon as operationally possible.
Street sweeping in concentrated areas is complete
The concentrated street sweeping program was completed on Saturday, April 13. More than 350 km of urban core roadways were cleaned during the nine (9) day program. Now that the concentrated areas are complete, the equipment will be reallocated to support the city-wide street sweeping.
Resident support is required
Residents are reminded to not rake or blow leaves, lawn clippings or other debris onto the roadways as it can make our operations more challenging, especially if the area has already been swept.
Wherever possible, please remove vehicles from the roadway to allow the street sweeping teams to complete their clean-up efficiently.
Staff recognize that street sweeping operations can be noisy and disruptive, for the short period in which they take place. However, they are an essential part of our spring clean-up efforts and as such, the City of Ottawa’s street sweeping operations are exempt from the Noise By-law (No. 2017-255) under Section 21(1) and may run at any time.
More information about our street sweeping operations is available on Ottawa.ca/springmaintenance
How long will it take?
While Maintenance Quality Standards (MQS) require staff to complete street sweeping operations by May 31st, crews started a little earlier this year and will continue to work diligently over the coming weeks to complete the spring cleanup as soon as operationally possible.
Street sweeping in concentrated areas is complete
The concentrated street sweeping program was completed on Saturday, April 13. More than 350 km of urban core roadways were cleaned during the nine (9) day program. Now that the concentrated areas are complete, the equipment will be reallocated to support the city-wide street sweeping.
Resident support is required
Residents are reminded to not rake or blow leaves, lawn clippings or other debris onto the roadways as it can make our operations more challenging, especially if the area has already been swept.
Wherever possible, please remove vehicles from the roadway to allow the street sweeping teams to complete their clean-up efficiently.
Staff recognize that street sweeping operations can be noisy and disruptive, for the short period in which they take place. However, they are an essential part of our spring clean-up efforts and as such, the City of Ottawa’s street sweeping operations are exempt from the Noise By-law (No. 2017-255) under Section 21(1) and may run at any time.
More information about our street sweeping operations is available on Ottawa.ca/springmaintenance
Parks Maintenance Spring Update: Ball Fields, Tennis/Pickleball Courts, BMX Skate Parks
April 12th, 2024
April 12th, 2024
Mother Nature threw one last curveball at the city with a wintery blast to mark the beginning of April. It’s almost time for residents to get out there and throw some curveballs, fastballs and sliders themselves! Parks Maintenance staff are busy preparing ball diamonds for that first pitch. There is, however, much to do before opening day. Over the coming weeks, staff will keep you updated on all their work as they prepare various park amenities for residents’ use this spring and summer.
Winter cleanup
They can’t prep for spring and summer without cleaning up from winter activities. In March, they started removing the boards, gates and safety netting from outdoor rinks across the city. Safety precautions such as bales have also been removed from sledding hills and staff are cleaning litter throughout parks and along roadsides.
Ball fields
To get the city’s 328 ball parks ready for the coming season in early May, staff are busy with inspections, necessary fencing repairs and reinstallation of any bleachers that were removed for the winter. They are also turning irrigation systems back on and checking for leaks.
While staff groom the infields, they are also doing turf repairs, fertilizing, overseeding, topdressing and aerating the fields. (Overseeding and topdressing are our most effective methods of preventing weeds, and aerating the fields reduces compacted soils and promotes healthy turf grass for safe and fun season.) Grass cutting is also underway.
Tennis and pickleball courts
Staff hope to have the 115 tennis and pickleball courts (link: https://tinyurl.com/ynwze4e2) ready for use soon, but they caution that heavy precipitation can hamper operations. If nets are installed too early with wet/soft ground conditions, tightening the nets will cause the posts to lean, requiring a costly re-instatement/replacement, delaying the season further. With heavy rain in the forecast for today and tomorrow, staff will be reviewing conditions and are still aiming to have nets installed for April 19.
Enclosed courts will remain locked until nets are installed to prevent improper use.
BMX and skate parks
Staff are also working to get the 15 BMX and skate parks (https://tinyurl.com/2v3asw3b) open as soon as possible, and that means inspecting for any deficiencies and required repairs, sweeping the surfaces, and removing any debris that may have accumulated over the winter.
How residents can help
Every year, residents make a huge difference by signing up for Cleaning the Capital (https://tinyurl.com/283y2edr). It has been a record-breaking year for applications, but that doesn’t mean the city isn’t looking for more!
You can choose from a variety of public spaces to clean, such as community parks, greenspaces, roadsides, or shorelines. Gather your team and help keep #OttCity clean and green! For more information or to register: ottawa.ca/clean
Baseball fields and other sports fields are officially closed, but parks staff will get them open as soon as they can. Please stay off them (https://tinyurl.com/4x8buswa) for two good reasons. One is your safety; all fields are inspected for divots or trip hazards before they are opened, and closed fields have not been inspected! Second, playing on these fields in wet conditions can compact the soil, hinder water absorption, create aeration problems and force grass roots to work harder to break through the soil. The chance of root disease increases and the quality of the turf decreases.
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a Service Request (https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4b), by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help them get the job done.
What’s next
Expect more information about grass cutting beyond baseball diamonds and sports fields! And, over the coming weeks, staff will share more about the work parks maintenance staff are doing to prepare sports fields, splash pads, wading pools, docks and beaches for use.
Thank you for your patience and support of their efforts!
Winter cleanup
They can’t prep for spring and summer without cleaning up from winter activities. In March, they started removing the boards, gates and safety netting from outdoor rinks across the city. Safety precautions such as bales have also been removed from sledding hills and staff are cleaning litter throughout parks and along roadsides.
Ball fields
To get the city’s 328 ball parks ready for the coming season in early May, staff are busy with inspections, necessary fencing repairs and reinstallation of any bleachers that were removed for the winter. They are also turning irrigation systems back on and checking for leaks.
While staff groom the infields, they are also doing turf repairs, fertilizing, overseeding, topdressing and aerating the fields. (Overseeding and topdressing are our most effective methods of preventing weeds, and aerating the fields reduces compacted soils and promotes healthy turf grass for safe and fun season.) Grass cutting is also underway.
Tennis and pickleball courts
Staff hope to have the 115 tennis and pickleball courts (link: https://tinyurl.com/ynwze4e2) ready for use soon, but they caution that heavy precipitation can hamper operations. If nets are installed too early with wet/soft ground conditions, tightening the nets will cause the posts to lean, requiring a costly re-instatement/replacement, delaying the season further. With heavy rain in the forecast for today and tomorrow, staff will be reviewing conditions and are still aiming to have nets installed for April 19.
Enclosed courts will remain locked until nets are installed to prevent improper use.
BMX and skate parks
Staff are also working to get the 15 BMX and skate parks (https://tinyurl.com/2v3asw3b) open as soon as possible, and that means inspecting for any deficiencies and required repairs, sweeping the surfaces, and removing any debris that may have accumulated over the winter.
How residents can help
Every year, residents make a huge difference by signing up for Cleaning the Capital (https://tinyurl.com/283y2edr). It has been a record-breaking year for applications, but that doesn’t mean the city isn’t looking for more!
You can choose from a variety of public spaces to clean, such as community parks, greenspaces, roadsides, or shorelines. Gather your team and help keep #OttCity clean and green! For more information or to register: ottawa.ca/clean
Baseball fields and other sports fields are officially closed, but parks staff will get them open as soon as they can. Please stay off them (https://tinyurl.com/4x8buswa) for two good reasons. One is your safety; all fields are inspected for divots or trip hazards before they are opened, and closed fields have not been inspected! Second, playing on these fields in wet conditions can compact the soil, hinder water absorption, create aeration problems and force grass roots to work harder to break through the soil. The chance of root disease increases and the quality of the turf decreases.
Notice anything that needs attention? Please send a Service Request (https://tinyurl.com/4k6mwn4b), by emailing [email protected] or calling 3-1-1. This is triaged to the right personnel in Parks Maintenance and is the fastest way to help them get the job done.
What’s next
Expect more information about grass cutting beyond baseball diamonds and sports fields! And, over the coming weeks, staff will share more about the work parks maintenance staff are doing to prepare sports fields, splash pads, wading pools, docks and beaches for use.
Thank you for your patience and support of their efforts!
Winter Operations Update
April 4th, 2024
April 4th, 2024
Hey folks, we just got another update from the City's Winter Operations Team
Forecast and Conditions
A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region with 5 to 10 centimetres expected today before tapering off to light snow this afternoon. Wind will be coming in from the east at 40 kilometres per hour and gusting to 60. Travel may be hazardous due to reduced visibility and local blowing snow.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all transportation networks.
Response
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to operate 24/7, and supervisors will be monitoring the conditions throughout the day and will deploy resources when necessary. Given the warmer temperatures forecasted over the weekend, there are no plans to clear residential streets.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network over the next 36 hours and unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the operational update for this spring storm.
The City Winter Operations management team appreciates your patience while responding to this weather event and the city's spring operations.
Please continue to travel with care today.
Forecast and Conditions
A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for the Ottawa region with 5 to 10 centimetres expected today before tapering off to light snow this afternoon. Wind will be coming in from the east at 40 kilometres per hour and gusting to 60. Travel may be hazardous due to reduced visibility and local blowing snow.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all transportation networks.
Response
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to operate 24/7, and supervisors will be monitoring the conditions throughout the day and will deploy resources when necessary. Given the warmer temperatures forecasted over the weekend, there are no plans to clear residential streets.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the forecast and the conditions of the transportation network over the next 36 hours and unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the operational update for this spring storm.
The City Winter Operations management team appreciates your patience while responding to this weather event and the city's spring operations.
Please continue to travel with care today.
Winter Operations Update
April 3rd, 2024
April 3rd, 2024
We’ve got a spring storm that is expected to bring rain and significant snowfall today and through the day on Thursday. Given the forecasted volume of snow overnight, there could be impacts on the morning commute.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the Ottawa Region. Rain is expected to slowly transition to snow late in the day, with 15 to 20 CM expected and peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 CM per hour possible. Snow, which may be heavy at times, is expected to continue through the night before tapering off on Thursday.
Travel may be hazardous due to accumulating snow and reduced visibility during peak snowfall rates. If you are out, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and take extra care when walking, driving, or cycling in affected areas.
The Roads and Parking Services team continue to operate 24/7 and we are ready! Supervisors will be out over the next 48 hours to monitor conditions. There remains uncertainty on the exact details of this spring storm and as such, their response will depend on the conditions. As the precipitation moves in, they will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network and deploy resources as needed.
Given the temperature will be very close to the freezing mark, the snow is expected to be wet and heavy. Please be patient, it will take crews time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
Staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let the city know!
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this weather system and the transportation network throughout the evening and overnight.
The City is committed to keeping you informed as the event progresses and will provide another update tomorrow. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this spring storm moves through the region.
Please travel with care.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the Ottawa Region. Rain is expected to slowly transition to snow late in the day, with 15 to 20 CM expected and peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 CM per hour possible. Snow, which may be heavy at times, is expected to continue through the night before tapering off on Thursday.
Travel may be hazardous due to accumulating snow and reduced visibility during peak snowfall rates. If you are out, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and take extra care when walking, driving, or cycling in affected areas.
The Roads and Parking Services team continue to operate 24/7 and we are ready! Supervisors will be out over the next 48 hours to monitor conditions. There remains uncertainty on the exact details of this spring storm and as such, their response will depend on the conditions. As the precipitation moves in, they will keep a close eye on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network and deploy resources as needed.
Given the temperature will be very close to the freezing mark, the snow is expected to be wet and heavy. Please be patient, it will take crews time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
Staff are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let the city know!
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this weather system and the transportation network throughout the evening and overnight.
The City is committed to keeping you informed as the event progresses and will provide another update tomorrow. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this spring storm moves through the region.
Please travel with care.
Roads Maintenance Update – March 20th, 2024
Getting ready for street sweeping operations
Over the past couple of weeks, you may have seen our street sweeping equipment in some neighborhoods as staff have been testing equipment and finalizing operational plans in preparation of the spring cleanup of our transportation network. This week, crews will begin street sweeping some arterial roads (weather permitting) and cleaning up sidewalks, bus stops and medians throughout the city using sidewalk sweepers, leaf blowers and hand brooms.
How is city-wide street sweeping completed?
City-wide street sweeping is done in phases:
When to expect operations to begin
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to monitor the forecast and meet regularly to determine the right timing for cleanup, street sweeping operations and spring maintenance activities to begin. More information regarding the commencement of concentrated street sweeping and city-wide street sweeping will be shared in the coming days.
As the seasons are in a period of transition, the team must also be ready for a winter weather event. March is an unpredictable month and there remains a possibility of snow or freezing rain in the forecast. The team continues to balance what is needed to respond to winter weather, while preparing for spring maintenance.
A peek at potholes
Crews continue their work on temporary pothole repairs. Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs, over 700 crews have been assigned and filled over 46,900 potholes! This is an increase of 30% compared to last year where the number of potholes filled between January 1 and March 18, 2023, was 35,983.
For residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online.
Over the past couple of weeks, you may have seen our street sweeping equipment in some neighborhoods as staff have been testing equipment and finalizing operational plans in preparation of the spring cleanup of our transportation network. This week, crews will begin street sweeping some arterial roads (weather permitting) and cleaning up sidewalks, bus stops and medians throughout the city using sidewalk sweepers, leaf blowers and hand brooms.
How is city-wide street sweeping completed?
City-wide street sweeping is done in phases:
- Sidewalks, bus stop pads and medians are cleaned first by a variety of methods using sidewalk sweepers, leaf blowers, flusher trucks and hand brooms.
- A sidewalk sweeper will work in the area first, pushing grit, debris and dust onto the roadway. A vacuum sweeper or mechanical sweeper truck then picks up the majority of grit, debris, small particles and dust removing it from the road.
- This operation might be repeated several times to ensure a clean surface. If vehicles are parked on the street, the unswept area is noted and crews will return to sweep that portion at a later date.
When to expect operations to begin
The Roads and Parking Services team continues to monitor the forecast and meet regularly to determine the right timing for cleanup, street sweeping operations and spring maintenance activities to begin. More information regarding the commencement of concentrated street sweeping and city-wide street sweeping will be shared in the coming days.
As the seasons are in a period of transition, the team must also be ready for a winter weather event. March is an unpredictable month and there remains a possibility of snow or freezing rain in the forecast. The team continues to balance what is needed to respond to winter weather, while preparing for spring maintenance.
A peek at potholes
Crews continue their work on temporary pothole repairs. Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs, over 700 crews have been assigned and filled over 46,900 potholes! This is an increase of 30% compared to last year where the number of potholes filled between January 1 and March 18, 2023, was 35,983.
For residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online.
Spring Operations Update for March 7th, 2024
With record breaking highs in the Capital over the past couple of weeks, melting snow, rain in the forecast and daylight savings time, everyone is looking forward to spring. Winter isn’t over yet, and the Roads and Parking Services team is working hard on balancing winter operations and preparing for spring maintenance activities.
Street sweeping operations
Street sweeping typically begins as early as the weather will allow, which means temperatures must be above freezing consistently during the day and overnight before operations can fully begin. When the temperature drops below zero, the water we use on the road can form into ice, creating dangerous conditions. These operations are an essential part of cleaning up the transportation network and the team has started preparing and testing equipment as well as developing operational plans. As soon as the temperature consistently remains above zero, crews will be ready, and operations will begin. It’s not time yet, but soon! Stay tuned for more information coming your way next week.
The team must also be ready for a winter weather event, it is March after all, and there remains a possibility of snow or freezing rain in the forecast. It is important that we keep that in mind while preparing for spring maintenance. Did you know that the sidewalk machines used to clear snow are the same machines used to sweep the active transportation network? The blades are replaced with broom attachments and the team must carefully balance preparing for spring operations and what is needed to effectively respond to a winter event.
Potholes
This winter has been one that Ottawa has never seen, with only 108 centimetres of snow so far, 117 millimeters of rainfall, 63 freeze-thaw cycles and unseasonably warmer temperatures, the team has been able to steadily work on potholes.
Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs, over 500 crews have been assigned and filled over 28,500 potholes! This is an increase of 38% compared to last year where the number of potholes filled between January 1 and February 28, 2023, was 17,503.
How are potholes formed?
Potholes are formed when water (from rain or melted snow and ice) seeps into small cracks or holes in the road. As temperatures drop, the water under the road freezes and expands pushing up on the road above, creating larger cracks – when the temperature rises above zero, the water evaporates and leaves an open space under the road. The weight of cars and trucks travelling over these weak spots breaks the asphalt, resulting in potholes.
How do we repair potholes?
Potholes are filled by cleaning the hole of debris and water, then packing it with asphalt and rolling or pounding it down. At this time of year, some potholes in high traffic areas may need to be refilled more than once. This happens because water works its way back into the hole preventing the asphalt from forming an adhesive bond with the pavement.
Filling potholes in winter
In winter, conditions are not ideal for pothole repairs. The unstable conditions, including ice and water in the holes, as well as the cold temperatures and frequent freeze / thaw cycles, prevents the patch from adhering as well to the roadway making the repair temporary. Products that staff use to repair potholes during the winter months are Cold Patch and Warm Mix asphalt.
Cold Patch asphalt is a blended asphalt material which can be stored for extended periods of time. It can be used in all temperatures, does not require special equipment to compact and can be applied directly to the roadway without heating.
Warm Mix asphalt can be used year-round and produced at a lower temperature using different adhesives in the mix. Once the material is heated, the adhesives become thinner allowing improved workability and flow. The material can be manually compacted with a tamper, or shaped and compacted with power plate tampers or rollers.
Next steps
We are committed to keeping you informed about spring maintenance activities and will provide an update next week on when street sweeping operations will begin as well as our progress on potholes. In the meantime, for residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online.
You can also expect to receive more information next week regarding the transition to spring maintenance activities from the Public Works Department as a whole.
We appreciate your patience as we transition between winter maintenance activities and preparing for spring operations.
Street sweeping operations
Street sweeping typically begins as early as the weather will allow, which means temperatures must be above freezing consistently during the day and overnight before operations can fully begin. When the temperature drops below zero, the water we use on the road can form into ice, creating dangerous conditions. These operations are an essential part of cleaning up the transportation network and the team has started preparing and testing equipment as well as developing operational plans. As soon as the temperature consistently remains above zero, crews will be ready, and operations will begin. It’s not time yet, but soon! Stay tuned for more information coming your way next week.
The team must also be ready for a winter weather event, it is March after all, and there remains a possibility of snow or freezing rain in the forecast. It is important that we keep that in mind while preparing for spring maintenance. Did you know that the sidewalk machines used to clear snow are the same machines used to sweep the active transportation network? The blades are replaced with broom attachments and the team must carefully balance preparing for spring operations and what is needed to effectively respond to a winter event.
Potholes
This winter has been one that Ottawa has never seen, with only 108 centimetres of snow so far, 117 millimeters of rainfall, 63 freeze-thaw cycles and unseasonably warmer temperatures, the team has been able to steadily work on potholes.
Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs, over 500 crews have been assigned and filled over 28,500 potholes! This is an increase of 38% compared to last year where the number of potholes filled between January 1 and February 28, 2023, was 17,503.
How are potholes formed?
Potholes are formed when water (from rain or melted snow and ice) seeps into small cracks or holes in the road. As temperatures drop, the water under the road freezes and expands pushing up on the road above, creating larger cracks – when the temperature rises above zero, the water evaporates and leaves an open space under the road. The weight of cars and trucks travelling over these weak spots breaks the asphalt, resulting in potholes.
How do we repair potholes?
Potholes are filled by cleaning the hole of debris and water, then packing it with asphalt and rolling or pounding it down. At this time of year, some potholes in high traffic areas may need to be refilled more than once. This happens because water works its way back into the hole preventing the asphalt from forming an adhesive bond with the pavement.
Filling potholes in winter
In winter, conditions are not ideal for pothole repairs. The unstable conditions, including ice and water in the holes, as well as the cold temperatures and frequent freeze / thaw cycles, prevents the patch from adhering as well to the roadway making the repair temporary. Products that staff use to repair potholes during the winter months are Cold Patch and Warm Mix asphalt.
Cold Patch asphalt is a blended asphalt material which can be stored for extended periods of time. It can be used in all temperatures, does not require special equipment to compact and can be applied directly to the roadway without heating.
Warm Mix asphalt can be used year-round and produced at a lower temperature using different adhesives in the mix. Once the material is heated, the adhesives become thinner allowing improved workability and flow. The material can be manually compacted with a tamper, or shaped and compacted with power plate tampers or rollers.
Next steps
We are committed to keeping you informed about spring maintenance activities and will provide an update next week on when street sweeping operations will begin as well as our progress on potholes. In the meantime, for residents wishing to report a pothole, a service request can be created online.
You can also expect to receive more information next week regarding the transition to spring maintenance activities from the Public Works Department as a whole.
We appreciate your patience as we transition between winter maintenance activities and preparing for spring operations.
Winter Operations Update for February 28th, 2024
Did someone say spring? No, it’s February, really. We’re about to hit record high temperatures, rain and even the possibility of thunderstorms over the next two days. Get your rain gear out, Ottawa; it’s going to be wet! But keep the parkas close - the temperature is expected to drastically drop this evening.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Flash Freeze Warning for the Ottawa Region on Wednesday evening. A dramatic change in temperatures is expected with a sharp cold front moving in. Temperatures are expected to go from well above freezing to below freezing in just a matter of a few hours. This cold front will cause slippery conditions.
Rain showers are expected to begin Tuesday evening and intensify overnight, with the heaviest rainfall forecasted on Wednesday morning and total amounts between 15 to 20 millimetres by Wednesday afternoon. Then the forecast is expected to shift significantly. Winds move in, with gusts of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour possible, and air temperatures plummet to a nighttime low of minus 15, pushing rain over to light snow with a potential for flash freeze conditions.
If you are out travelling, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and allow extra space for our vehicles to work.
Our response
The Roads and Parking Services Team is on the job! Given the duration of this event, supervisors will monitor the forecast and road conditions as the weather changes over the next couple of days. As the rain changes to light snow, crews will be deployed to treat our sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
Given the amount of rain expected, supervisors will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling through ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, we are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the city, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know!
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 48 hours and unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the operational update for this event.
We appreciate your patience as we work together on addressing these changing conditions.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Flash Freeze Warning for the Ottawa Region on Wednesday evening. A dramatic change in temperatures is expected with a sharp cold front moving in. Temperatures are expected to go from well above freezing to below freezing in just a matter of a few hours. This cold front will cause slippery conditions.
Rain showers are expected to begin Tuesday evening and intensify overnight, with the heaviest rainfall forecasted on Wednesday morning and total amounts between 15 to 20 millimetres by Wednesday afternoon. Then the forecast is expected to shift significantly. Winds move in, with gusts of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour possible, and air temperatures plummet to a nighttime low of minus 15, pushing rain over to light snow with a potential for flash freeze conditions.
If you are out travelling, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and allow extra space for our vehicles to work.
Our response
The Roads and Parking Services Team is on the job! Given the duration of this event, supervisors will monitor the forecast and road conditions as the weather changes over the next couple of days. As the rain changes to light snow, crews will be deployed to treat our sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
Given the amount of rain expected, supervisors will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling through ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, we are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the city, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know!
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services Team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 48 hours and unless the forecast changes significantly, this will serve as the operational update for this event.
We appreciate your patience as we work together on addressing these changing conditions.
Winter Operations Update for February 16th
Forecast and conditions
The Weather Advisory has ended with periods of light snow and cloudy conditions remaining for the Ottawa region today. Road surface temperatures have been below freezing creating icy and slippery conditions on sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network today. Please adjust to the conditions of the network.
Our response
Staff will continue to monitor the transportation network. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to treat sidewalks and priority roads. Work began in residential neighbourhoods to clear and treat streets earlier this morning. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Residents are encouraged to support our operations by finding off-street parking options by asking a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. Streets that remain free of vehicles help our crews with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring staff can properly plow residential streets.
Continue to travel with care today and have a great long weekend.
The Weather Advisory has ended with periods of light snow and cloudy conditions remaining for the Ottawa region today. Road surface temperatures have been below freezing creating icy and slippery conditions on sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution when using the transportation network today. Please adjust to the conditions of the network.
Our response
Staff will continue to monitor the transportation network. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to treat sidewalks and priority roads. Work began in residential neighbourhoods to clear and treat streets earlier this morning. The nightshift will be back in overnight to clean up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Residents are encouraged to support our operations by finding off-street parking options by asking a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. Streets that remain free of vehicles help our crews with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring staff can properly plow residential streets.
Continue to travel with care today and have a great long weekend.
Winter Operations Update for February 15th
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory (https://bitly.ws/ZMzt) for the Ottawa region with total accumulations of 5 to 10 cm of snow expected, and peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 cm per hour possible. The majority of snow is expected to fall during the evening hours before tapering off to light snow overnight.
Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Visibility may be suddenly reduced during peak snow fall rates. Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas.
City response
All available resources will be deployed and working around the clock. Staff are keeping an eye on the forecast today and will monitor the transportation network this evening and overnight. Once accumulation begins, the focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the evening and overnight.
More info:
Snow plowing and clearing | City of Ottawa
Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Visibility may be suddenly reduced during peak snow fall rates. Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas.
City response
All available resources will be deployed and working around the clock. Staff are keeping an eye on the forecast today and will monitor the transportation network this evening and overnight. Once accumulation begins, the focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the evening and overnight.
More info:
Snow plowing and clearing | City of Ottawa
Snow Removals in Bridlewood are continuing!
February 1st, 2024
February 1st, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight (February 1st):
STONEHAVEN from EAGLESON to OLD RICHMOND RD.
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website:
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Katimavik are continuing!
January 31st, 2024
January 31st, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (February 1st):
CHIMO from CHIMO to CHIMO
CONANT from DEAD END to MCGIBBON
HENDRIE from DEAD END to MCGIBBON
HEPBURN from DEAD END to ROBARTS
KLEIN from YOUNG to DEAD END
LARSEN from CHIMO to LARSEN
MCLAUGHLIN to DEAD END
MILLMAN from DEAD END to PICKFORD
NANOOK from NANOOK to NANOOK
PATCH from MCCURDY to DEAD END
PETERSON from DEAD END to ROBARTS
SHAW from DEAD END to HUMPHREY
SICARD from MCCURDY to DEAD END
YOUNGS POND from MAPLE GROVE to DEAD END
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website:
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Bridlewood are continuing!
January 31st, 2024
January 31st, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (February 1st):
KINGHAVEN from STONEHAVEN to STONEHAVEN
GYRFALCON from PINE HILL to PINE HILL
BRIDLEGLEN from STONEMEADOW to STONEMEADOW
SUNNYRIDGE from BRIDLEGLEN to BRIDLE GLEN
SAWYER from STONEHAVEN to GLEN MEADOWS
TANDALEE from STONEHAVEN to TANDALEE
SILVERHORSE from EQUESTRIAN to EQUESTRIAN
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Kanata South are continuing!
January 31st, 2024
January 31st, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight (January 31st):
MICHAEL COWPLAND from TERENCE MATTHEWS to EAGLESON
MICHAEL COWPLAND from EAGLESON to DEAD END
TERRENCE MATTHEWS from MICHAEL COWPLAND to MICHAEL COWPLAND
COPE from EAGLESON to TERRY FOX
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Kanata South are continuing!
January 30th, 2024
January 30th, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 31st):
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
OAKGLADE from AKERSON to BARRICK HILL
FOXLEIGH from EQUESTRIAN N to EQUISTRIAN S
BLUEGRASS from FOXLEIGH to EQUESTRIAN
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website:
Thank you for your assistance
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 31st):
OPUS from ROMINA to OVERBERG
ARRITA from ROMINA to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to OVERBERG
OVERBERG from OPUS to TERRY FOX
TULUM from OVERBERG to OVERBERG
RIOJA from OVERBERG to TULUM
OAKGLADE from AKERSON to BARRICK HILL
FOXLEIGH from EQUESTRIAN N to EQUISTRIAN S
BLUEGRASS from FOXLEIGH to EQUESTRIAN
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website:
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Bridlewood are continuing!
January 29th, 2024
January 29th, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 30th):
BLACK TERN from STEEPLE CHASE to STEEPLE CHASE
SAUBLE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
YOHO from KOKANEE to KOKANEE
KOKANEE from YOGO to STEEPLE CHASE
SPRINGWATER from INWOOD to STEEPLE CHASE
CEDAR VALLEY from BRIDGESTONE to SADDLESMITH
SADDLESMITH from BRIDGESTONE to SADDLESMITH
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 30th):
BLACK TERN from STEEPLE CHASE to STEEPLE CHASE
SAUBLE from YOHO to STEEPLE CHASE
YOHO from KOKANEE to KOKANEE
KOKANEE from YOGO to STEEPLE CHASE
SPRINGWATER from INWOOD to STEEPLE CHASE
CEDAR VALLEY from BRIDGESTONE to SADDLESMITH
SADDLESMITH from BRIDGESTONE to SADDLESMITH
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Kanata South are continuing!
January 29th, 2024
January 29th, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight overnight (January 29th):
AKERSON from MICHAEL COWPLAND to COPE
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
KATIMAVIK from TERRY FOX to CASTLEFRANK
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight overnight (January 29th):
AKERSON from MICHAEL COWPLAND to COPE
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
KATIMAVIK from TERRY FOX to CASTLEFRANK
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Bridlewood are continuing!
January 29th, 2024
January 29th, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads today during the day (January 29th):
PINE HILL from STEEPLE CHASE to STONEHAVEN
STONEMEADOW from STONEHAVEN to SPRINGCREEK
BRIDLE PARK from STONEHAVEN to BRIDGESTONE
STONEMEADOW from BRIDLE PARK to STONEHAVEN
KINGHAVEN CRES from STONEHAVEN to STONEHAVEN
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Katimavik are continuing!
January 29th, 2024
January 29th, 2024
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads today during the day (January 29th)
AIRD from DEAD END to KATIMAVIK
BARROW CRES from KAKULU to SCHOOL
IRWIN from PICKFORD to HAZELDEAN
KATIMAVK from TERRY FOX to CASTLEFRANK
LOMBARDO from DEAD END to PICKFORD
SHATNER from PICKFORD to EAGLESON
TAMBLYN from CASTLEFRANK to DRESSLER
YOUNG from HAZELDEAN to TURNBULL AVE
MAPLE GROVE from TERRY FOX to YOUNG
YOUNGS FARM from FORBES to MAPLE GROVE
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads today during the day (January 29th)
AIRD from DEAD END to KATIMAVIK
BARROW CRES from KAKULU to SCHOOL
IRWIN from PICKFORD to HAZELDEAN
KATIMAVK from TERRY FOX to CASTLEFRANK
LOMBARDO from DEAD END to PICKFORD
SHATNER from PICKFORD to EAGLESON
TAMBLYN from CASTLEFRANK to DRESSLER
YOUNG from HAZELDEAN to TURNBULL AVE
MAPLE GROVE from TERRY FOX to YOUNG
YOUNGS FARM from FORBES to MAPLE GROVE
I will continue to post removal locations as I receive them on Facebook as well as my website
Thank you for your assistance
Winter Operations Update
January 26th, 2024
January 26th, 2024
Winter Operations Update for January 26th
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning for the Ottawa region. Similar to the freezing rain event on Wednesday, several hours of freezing rain is likely today with ice accretion of 2 to 4 millimetres possible. Freezing rain will change to rain or snow near noon and ending late this afternoon.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to quickly accumulating ice.
Staff encourage those who can, to consider postponing plans today, as travel should be avoided unless it is essential.
Our response
All resources have been deployed to treat icy and slippery conditions on sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and winter cycling network. Supervisors will be monitoring the transportation network throughout the day and into the evening, and crews will adjust to the changing conditions. They will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
Crews will be travelling slower than usual as freezing rain will cause icy conditions on the transportation network. Please be patient and give them space to work.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the day and overnight. City Staff have responded to two back-to-back freezing rain events and we would like to acknowledge their dedication, ongoing hard work, and their ability to adjust to challenging weather conditions.
Through the weekend, crews will resume snow removal operations while supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network. The focus is on arterial and collector roadways throughout the city and residential streets in the urban areas. Crews have also moved into selective residential streets in the suburban areas.
We would like to thank residents for their patience and support as we complete our operations.
Thank you and have a safe weekend.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning for the Ottawa region. Similar to the freezing rain event on Wednesday, several hours of freezing rain is likely today with ice accretion of 2 to 4 millimetres possible. Freezing rain will change to rain or snow near noon and ending late this afternoon.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to quickly accumulating ice.
Staff encourage those who can, to consider postponing plans today, as travel should be avoided unless it is essential.
Our response
All resources have been deployed to treat icy and slippery conditions on sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and winter cycling network. Supervisors will be monitoring the transportation network throughout the day and into the evening, and crews will adjust to the changing conditions. They will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
Crews will be travelling slower than usual as freezing rain will cause icy conditions on the transportation network. Please be patient and give them space to work.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the day and overnight. City Staff have responded to two back-to-back freezing rain events and we would like to acknowledge their dedication, ongoing hard work, and their ability to adjust to challenging weather conditions.
Through the weekend, crews will resume snow removal operations while supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network. The focus is on arterial and collector roadways throughout the city and residential streets in the urban areas. Crews have also moved into selective residential streets in the suburban areas.
We would like to thank residents for their patience and support as we complete our operations.
Thank you and have a safe weekend.
Winter Operations Update
January 25th, 2024
January 25th, 2024
Forecast and conditions
The Freezing Rain Warning has now ended for the Ottawa region. Road surface temperatures remain below freezing and the transportation network may be slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise caution as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may be icy, slushy and slippery.
Overnight tonight, freezing rain is expected to return to the region and last until Friday morning. Temperatures are then expected to rise, and precipitation will transition to straight rain later in the morning before clearing out late in the afternoon.
Our response
Supervisors will continue to monitor the conditions of the transportation network throughout the City today. All resources have been deployed and continue to treat icy conditions on sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and winter cycling network. Crews will move into residential neighbourhoods this morning to treat icy conditions from last night’s event and to clean up any snowpack and slushy conditions left over from the smaller snow events earlier this week.
With more freezing rain and rain expected, staff will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
Snow removal operations will be paused until the transportation network has been restored.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the day and overnight.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we clean up from last night’s freezing rain event. Our City staff will provide another update tomorrow after tonight’s event, including our operational plans heading into the weekend.
The Freezing Rain Warning has now ended for the Ottawa region. Road surface temperatures remain below freezing and the transportation network may be slippery. Residents are reminded to exercise caution as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may be icy, slushy and slippery.
Overnight tonight, freezing rain is expected to return to the region and last until Friday morning. Temperatures are then expected to rise, and precipitation will transition to straight rain later in the morning before clearing out late in the afternoon.
Our response
Supervisors will continue to monitor the conditions of the transportation network throughout the City today. All resources have been deployed and continue to treat icy conditions on sidewalks, roads, bus routes, the Transitway and winter cycling network. Crews will move into residential neighbourhoods this morning to treat icy conditions from last night’s event and to clean up any snowpack and slushy conditions left over from the smaller snow events earlier this week.
With more freezing rain and rain expected, staff will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling by ensuring catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
Snow removal operations will be paused until the transportation network has been restored.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network throughout the day and overnight.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we clean up from last night’s freezing rain event. Our City staff will provide another update tomorrow after tonight’s event, including our operational plans heading into the weekend.
Winter Maintenance Update
January 24th, 2024
January 24th, 2024
The Roads and Parking Services team is closely monitoring a system that is expected to bring freezing rain to the Capital that could be operationally challenging.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning for the Ottawa region. Freezing drizzle or light flurries will persist today before transitioning to freezing rain. Beginning this evening through to Thursday morning, a prolonged period of freezing rain with 5 to 10 millimetres of ice accretion is expected. This will produce significant ice build-up on the transportation network.
There are warning residents to be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions and take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to quickly accumulating ice.
They encourage those who can, to plan ahead today, as travel should be avoided unless it is essential.
Supervisors will be out throughout the day and into the evening monitoring conditions. Across the City and as this event unfolds, all resources will be deployed to treat icy conditions on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. With rain expected Thursday night, they will also monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding and address any water pooling through ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, staff are asking for anyone who can, to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using the city’s catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Use the link provided, call 3-1-1 or email [email protected]
Crews will be travelling slower than usual as freezing rain will cause icy conditions on the transportation network, but rest assured, they are hard at work.
Snow Removal Operations
Since January 15, the Roads and Parking Services team has been working day and night on snow removal operations in selective areas across the City. The team continues to focus on arterial and collector roadways throughout the city and residential streets in the urban areas. Crews have also moved into selective residential streets in the suburban areas.
Resources that have been removing snowbanks will be reallocated to respond to this weather event and once the transportation network is restored, crews will be able to return to snow removal operations.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as this freezing rain event unfolds.
Stay safe and travel with care.
Snow Removal Update
January 24th, 2024
Due to the freezing rain that is expected to begin this evening and continue overnight into tomorrow, there are no streets scheduled for snow removal tonight or tomorrow during the day. Removals are expected to continue on Thursday, and I will post any streets on the list for removals once I receive them.
Thank you!
January 24th, 2024
Due to the freezing rain that is expected to begin this evening and continue overnight into tomorrow, there are no streets scheduled for snow removal tonight or tomorrow during the day. Removals are expected to continue on Thursday, and I will post any streets on the list for removals once I receive them.
Thank you!
Snow Removals continue:
This evening (Tuesday Jan. 23rd ) and tomorrow (Wednesday Jan. 24th) staff will be removing the large snowbanks on the below streets.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads overnight:
January 23rd- Overnight
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
BRIDLEWOOD from STONEHAVEN to STEEPLE CHASE
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to BRIDLEWOOD
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to STONEHAVEN
January 24th- Daytime
ROMINA from EAGLESON to FERNBANK
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
TEMPLEFORD from COPE to FERNBANK
TABARET from PEPPERVILLE to PATRIOT
NORTHGRAVES from COPE to COPE
OAKGLADE from AKERSON to BARRICK HILL
Thank you for your assistance
This evening (Tuesday Jan. 23rd ) and tomorrow (Wednesday Jan. 24th) staff will be removing the large snowbanks on the below streets.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads overnight:
January 23rd- Overnight
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
BRIDLEWOOD from STONEHAVEN to STEEPLE CHASE
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to BRIDLEWOOD
STEEPLE CHASE from BON ECHO to STONEHAVEN
January 24th- Daytime
ROMINA from EAGLESON to FERNBANK
BRIGITTA from ROMINA to 353 BRIGITTA
LOKOYA from ROMINA to BRIGITTA
TEMPLEFORD from COPE to FERNBANK
TABARET from PEPPERVILLE to PATRIOT
NORTHGRAVES from COPE to COPE
OAKGLADE from AKERSON to BARRICK HILL
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Monahan are continuing!
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads today during the day (January 23rd):
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
COLDWATER from MEADOWBREEZE to MEADOWBREEZE
AUTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
PINELOCK from SOLARIS to MEADOWBREEZE
SAWYER from STONEHAVEN to GLEN MEADOWS
Thank you for your assistance
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads today during the day (January 23rd):
EMERALD MEADOWS from EAGLESON to GRASSY PLAINS
LILY POND from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
COLDWATER from MEADOWBREEZE to MEADOWBREEZE
AUTUMNFIELD from MEADOWBREEZE to CROWNRIDGE
RIVERTREE from CROWNRIDGE to ASPER TRAIL
ASPER TRAIL from MEADOWBREEZE to ASPER TRAIL
PINELOCK from SOLARIS to MEADOWBREEZE
SAWYER from STONEHAVEN to GLEN MEADOWS
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removals in Katimavik are continuing!
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 23rd):
ANIK from KAKULU to CHIMO
BARROW CRES from KAKULU at SCHOOL
BEAUFORT from HERSCHEL to CHIMO
CHIMO from KATIMAVIK to NANNOOK
IRWIN from PICKFORD to HAZELDEAN
LOMBARDO from DEAD END to PICKFORD
PICKFORD from KAKULU to KAKULU
SHATNER from PICKFORD to EAGLESON
Thank you for your assistance
Staff are continuing to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tomorrow during the day (January 23rd):
ANIK from KAKULU to CHIMO
BARROW CRES from KAKULU at SCHOOL
BEAUFORT from HERSCHEL to CHIMO
CHIMO from KATIMAVIK to NANNOOK
IRWIN from PICKFORD to HAZELDEAN
LOMBARDO from DEAD END to PICKFORD
PICKFORD from KAKULU to KAKULU
SHATNER from PICKFORD to EAGLESON
Thank you for your assistance
Snow Removal in Glen Cairn is continuing!
Staff continue to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight (January 22nd):
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
GLAMORGAN from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
ROTHESAY from EAGLESON to GLAMORGAN
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESON
CARBROOKE from HAZELDEAN to ABBEYHILL
OLD COLONY from ABBEYHILL to ROTHESAY
Thank you for your assistance
Staff continue to remove the large snowbanks on the school routes and priority roads in Kanata South.
Please ensure that your vehicle is not parked on the below roads tonight (January 22nd):
CASTLEFRANK from TERRY FOX to GLAMORGAN
GLAMORGAN from CASTLEFRANK to CASTLEFRANK
ROTHESAY from EAGLESON to GLAMORGAN
PALOMINO from EAGLESON to EAGLESON
CARBROOKE from HAZELDEAN to ABBEYHILL
OLD COLONY from ABBEYHILL to ROTHESAY
Thank you for your assistance
January 22nd, 2024
Snow Removal Operations in Kanata South
Snow Removal Operations in Kanata South
2024 Snow Removal Schedule
Please do not park vehicles on the roadways during the removal dates listed below, so that crews can remove as much snow as possible.
January 21st- Overnight
Glen Cairn
Please do not park vehicles on the roadways during the removal dates listed below, so that crews can remove as much snow as possible.
January 21st- Overnight
Glen Cairn
January 22nd - Daytime
Katimavik
Katimavik
Monahan
Winter Operations Update
January 15th, 2024
January 15th, 2024
Hi Folks,
I just wanted to provide an update regarding the winter operations that took place over the weekend.
Crews began plowing the priority roadway network on Friday evening (priority roads are streets like Hazeldean, Eagleson, Stonehaven, Katimavik etc.) and worked throughout the night to clear our main roadways, bus routes and sidewalks. The blowing snow made things a bit challenging as much of the snow blew back onto roadways, requiring additional plowing to be done. Early Saturday morning, they began the residential roads returning to clear up any roads that needed a second or third pass.
By the time I was out with the Roads Supervisor on Saturday afternoon, most streets had already one or two passes and sidewalk clearing was well underway (with some sidewalks needing a second clearing after the snow from the road plow sometimes ends up back on the sidewalks). By Sunday morning, crews had most of the network of roads and sidewalks done and pathways were worked on during the day on Sunday.
I want to thank the crews that worked this past weekend to clear the large accumulation of snow that we got overnight Friday and into Saturday. A special thanks to residents that helped clear fire hydrants and catch basins where possible.
When I spoke with By-Law late Saturday afternoon, there were very few on-street parking tickets that had been issued, so thank you to all residents who were able to find alternate parking while staff cleared the snow from this storm.
For more info you can always visit the Snow Plowing and Clearning section of the City of Ottawa's website:
https://ottawa.ca/en/parking-roads-and-travel/roads-sidewalks-and-pathways/snow-plowing-and-clearing
I just wanted to provide an update regarding the winter operations that took place over the weekend.
Crews began plowing the priority roadway network on Friday evening (priority roads are streets like Hazeldean, Eagleson, Stonehaven, Katimavik etc.) and worked throughout the night to clear our main roadways, bus routes and sidewalks. The blowing snow made things a bit challenging as much of the snow blew back onto roadways, requiring additional plowing to be done. Early Saturday morning, they began the residential roads returning to clear up any roads that needed a second or third pass.
By the time I was out with the Roads Supervisor on Saturday afternoon, most streets had already one or two passes and sidewalk clearing was well underway (with some sidewalks needing a second clearing after the snow from the road plow sometimes ends up back on the sidewalks). By Sunday morning, crews had most of the network of roads and sidewalks done and pathways were worked on during the day on Sunday.
I want to thank the crews that worked this past weekend to clear the large accumulation of snow that we got overnight Friday and into Saturday. A special thanks to residents that helped clear fire hydrants and catch basins where possible.
When I spoke with By-Law late Saturday afternoon, there were very few on-street parking tickets that had been issued, so thank you to all residents who were able to find alternate parking while staff cleared the snow from this storm.
For more info you can always visit the Snow Plowing and Clearning section of the City of Ottawa's website:
https://ottawa.ca/en/parking-roads-and-travel/roads-sidewalks-and-pathways/snow-plowing-and-clearing
Winter Roads Update
January 10th, 2024
January 10th, 2024
The snow started earlier than expected yesterday and had no mercy before transitioning over to freezing rain and then rain. The city received approximately 10 centimetres of snow accumulation with higher amounts in localized areas. Crews have been going all night and passed the baton to the day shift early this morning. The goal today is clean up!
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has lifted the Winter Storm Warning and no alerts are in effect. The temperature remains above zero and rain or drizzle is expected to end this morning with a chance of rain showers or flurries into the afternoon. The daytime high is expected to reach 4 degrees today, but cold air returns tonight and a sharp drop in temperature with a wind chill value near minus 12 expected. This will create icy and slippery conditions on the transportation network.
Conditions are wet and slushy today. Residents are reminded to take care when walking, driving or cycling on the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to treat and clear sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews started clearing residential streets earlier this morning and will continue throughout the day and into the evening. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. As a reminder, the snow is wet and heavy so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network, but rest assured, they are hard at work.
The Roads and Parking Services team has reported drainage issues across the city and as such, supervisors are out monitoring areas that are prone to localized flooding and will address any water pooling through ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, we are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know!
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has added an additional 18 parking lots for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is now tracking a potential winter storm headed for the capital overnight Friday into Saturday with considerable snow accumulation expected. You can expect an update regarding this winter storm and our response as it moves closer to our region.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has lifted the Winter Storm Warning and no alerts are in effect. The temperature remains above zero and rain or drizzle is expected to end this morning with a chance of rain showers or flurries into the afternoon. The daytime high is expected to reach 4 degrees today, but cold air returns tonight and a sharp drop in temperature with a wind chill value near minus 12 expected. This will create icy and slippery conditions on the transportation network.
Conditions are wet and slushy today. Residents are reminded to take care when walking, driving or cycling on the transportation network.
Our response
Supervisors continue to monitor the transportation network. All resources are deployed, and as we progress through the day, crews will continue to treat and clear sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews started clearing residential streets earlier this morning and will continue throughout the day and into the evening. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. As a reminder, the snow is wet and heavy so it will take crews longer to get through the entire transportation network, but rest assured, they are hard at work.
The Roads and Parking Services team has reported drainage issues across the city and as such, supervisors are out monitoring areas that are prone to localized flooding and will address any water pooling through ensuring that catch basins and ditches are open and able to take in water.
In the meantime, we are asking for anyone who can to please ensure that your local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know!
Winter weather parking ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has added an additional 18 parking lots for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is now tracking a potential winter storm headed for the capital overnight Friday into Saturday with considerable snow accumulation expected. You can expect an update regarding this winter storm and our response as it moves closer to our region.
Special Advisory: Daytime Winter Weather Parking Ban in effect on Wednesday, January 10th from 10 am to 7 pm
January 9th, 2024
January 9th, 2024
Due to weather conditions, a daytime winter weather parking ban will be in effect on Wednesday, January 10 between 10 am and 7 pm across Ottawa. These hours might be extended if additional time is needed to complete winter road operations. Alternative parking during a parking ban can be found by visiting the Winter Parking webpage. Please be sure to remove your vehicle when the ban ends if you use it.
During a winter weather parking ban, parking is prohibited on city streets so crews can plow easily and effectively. Vehicles parked on the street during a ban may be ticketed and towed. On-street monthly parking permit holders are exempt from this restriction when they are parked in residential parking permit zones.
Available parking
During winter weather parking bans, residents will have access to select OC Transpo park and rides as well as certain recreation centres. Some City parking garages are available for parking during winter parking bans, however it is important that residents take note of what time they need to remove their car. Visit ottawa.ca/winterparking for more information about which City facilities are available during winter weather parking bans.
Commercial main streets
To help residents shop local, some commercial main streets are exempt from winter parking bans. When a parking ban is called during winter weather events, residents can park in the identified areas while observing all posted signage and pay and display requirements.
Be in the know about snow
For more winter parking information, please visit ottawa.ca/winterparking.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
During a winter weather parking ban, parking is prohibited on city streets so crews can plow easily and effectively. Vehicles parked on the street during a ban may be ticketed and towed. On-street monthly parking permit holders are exempt from this restriction when they are parked in residential parking permit zones.
Available parking
During winter weather parking bans, residents will have access to select OC Transpo park and rides as well as certain recreation centres. Some City parking garages are available for parking during winter parking bans, however it is important that residents take note of what time they need to remove their car. Visit ottawa.ca/winterparking for more information about which City facilities are available during winter weather parking bans.
Commercial main streets
To help residents shop local, some commercial main streets are exempt from winter parking bans. When a parking ban is called during winter weather events, residents can park in the identified areas while observing all posted signage and pay and display requirements.
Be in the know about snow
- Subscribe to our electronic email alerts. If you subscribe to e-Alerts, you will receive notification each time a winter weather parking ban is put in place, extended or lifted. There is no charge for this service, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
- Follow us on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to receive updates
- Residents can also download the City of Ottawa app on their Android or Apple device to receive up-to-date information on winter parking bans and other City news.
For more winter parking information, please visit ottawa.ca/winterparking.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Ottawa region. Snow will begin late this afternoon, intensifying into the evening with total accumulations of 10 to 20 centimetres possible before transitioning to freezing rain and then rain overnight. The exact amount of snow will depend on how quickly precipitation changes to ice pellets or freezing rain. Snow will be heavy at times and may be mixed with ice pellets before changing to freezing rain after midnight as the temperature is expected to rise to zero by morning. Several hours of freezing rain are possible. Local blowing snow is expected this evening and after midnight with wind gusts up to 50 kilometres per hour causing very poor visibility.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network today. Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Our response
All available resources will be deployed and working around the clock. Our supervisors are monitoring conditions today and will continue into the late evening and overnight. Once accumulation begins, our focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network. Crews are expected to move into residential neighbourhoods tomorrow morning. Given the nature of this event, the snow will be wet and heavy and it will take some time to clean up.
Conditions will be messy and visibility, at times, may be restricted. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential.
A Daytime Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Wednesday, January 10 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has added an additional 18 parking lots for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network. Variable conditions will make things difficult to navigate - they will adapt and try to stay ahead of this winter storm. Support from our residents is crucial as we respond to this event.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this winter storm unfolds.
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Ottawa region. Snow will begin late this afternoon, intensifying into the evening with total accumulations of 10 to 20 centimetres possible before transitioning to freezing rain and then rain overnight. The exact amount of snow will depend on how quickly precipitation changes to ice pellets or freezing rain. Snow will be heavy at times and may be mixed with ice pellets before changing to freezing rain after midnight as the temperature is expected to rise to zero by morning. Several hours of freezing rain are possible. Local blowing snow is expected this evening and after midnight with wind gusts up to 50 kilometres per hour causing very poor visibility.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network today. Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Our response
All available resources will be deployed and working around the clock. Our supervisors are monitoring conditions today and will continue into the late evening and overnight. Once accumulation begins, our focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network. Crews are expected to move into residential neighbourhoods tomorrow morning. Given the nature of this event, the snow will be wet and heavy and it will take some time to clean up.
Conditions will be messy and visibility, at times, may be restricted. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential.
A Daytime Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Wednesday, January 10 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. The City of Ottawa has added an additional 18 parking lots for residents to park during a parking ban. Vehicles may remain parked at these sites for the duration of the ban and must be removed after the City announces that the ban has been lifted. Information on all parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- Safety is a priority for our team, and we will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are messy and changing, and those who have to travel should adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar or can download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices to confirm their collection day.
- Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time prepare your emergency kit.
- Do you need volunteer hours? Become a Snow Angel! Support your community by helping someone you know who is elderly or has a disability, by clearing snow or ice from their driveway, steps or walkway. More information on the Snow Angel Program is available on Ottawa.ca.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network. Variable conditions will make things difficult to navigate - they will adapt and try to stay ahead of this winter storm. Support from our residents is crucial as we respond to this event.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this winter storm unfolds.
Winter Storm Update
January 8th, 2024
January 8th, 2024
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Ottawa region and as such, it is important to provide an update on the major weather system we currently are monitoring closely for late Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. This system has the potential to be an impactful winter storm with heavy snow, ice pellets, and freezing rain. How this weather system is tracking is still somewhat uncertain, and as a result, expected snowfall amounts and precipitation types may change over the next 12 to 24 hours.
It is anticipated that further warnings may be issued as this event draws nearer.
City response in preparation for tomorrow’s event
As we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear and treat sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions leftover from yesterday’s event. They will also continue to focus on cleaning up any remaining problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs. The Roads and Parking Services team are getting prepared and will be ready to respond to tomorrow’s event!
Forecast and conditions
Significant snowfall is expected Tuesday, transitioning to freezing rain and rain for some areas overnight into Wednesday with strong winds causing potential whiteout conditions. The amount of snow will depend on how quickly precipitation changes to ice pellets or freezing rain, although 10 to 20 centimetres of snow is possible. Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult.
We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel should be limited unless it is essential. If you have to travel, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Next steps
The Roads and Parking Services team is monitoring this major weather system and the transportation network closely. Given the forecast remains fluid, they are prepared to adjust our response based on the changing conditions.
Winter Operations Update
December 1st, 2023
December 1st, 2023
Hey folks, here's what to expect this weekend regarding winter weather. Thank you to City Staff from Roads & Parking Services for this update:
On what started off as a sunny Friday, the next 48 hours Ottawa will experience a transition from cloudy conditions to light rain and then snow, with the potential for a significant snowfall event expected late Sunday into Monday morning.
Forecast and Conditions
Starting this afternoon, light rain is expected across the city, transitioning to light snow by the evening and continuing overnight with up to 5 centimetres expected by sunrise Saturday morning. Another 2 centimetres is possible into Saturday afternoon, with conditions expected to clear through Sunday until snow picks back up again in the afternoon. Snowfall will intensify late Sunday into Monday morning, with the potential of a significant event likely to bring mixed precipitation and a possible 5 to 10 centimetres of snow, which is expected to be wet and heavy due to temperatures near the freezing mark.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks over the weekend.
Our Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready! Over the next 48 hours, supervisors will monitor the forecast and the transportation network. Once accumulation starts, crews will be working on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads and our winter cycling network in accordance with the Council-approved Maintenance Quality Standards.
We are asking for patience as operations may take longer than normal as the snow is expected to be wet and heavy and crews adjust to the variable weather conditions.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will be monitoring the upcoming significant snowfall event expected late Sunday into Monday morning and will update you on the weekend as the system unfolds
