West Hartford Issues Provides Latest On Winter Storm Preps: UPDATE

Town of West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — West Hartford officials Monday announced that a parking ban will go into effect due to the expected snowstorm Monday night into Tuesday.

In addition, however, the snowstorm will close all town schools and offices/facilities as well in addition to causing delays in trash pickup.

The parking ban goes into effect at 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, and continues until "further notice," according to the Town of West Hartford.

The storm comes amid a relatively mild and snow-free winter. Initially, anywhere from 6-12 inches of snow was expected to hit the state Tuesday.

But a new storm track has decreased those figures, with WFSB Channel 3 predicting inch counts in the 2-4 inch range. Those counts, however, slowly increased and, now, 6-10 inches is predicted.

The flakes are expected to start flying Tuesday morning and stop sometime Tuesday afternoon.

The West Hartford Department of Public Works is preparing for a winter storm that will impact all of Connecticut.

During a parking ban, no on-street parking is allowed so crews can remove snow from curb to curb.

Cars left on the road create a safety hazard for all concerned. The owner will receive a fine and the car may be towed.

"Please take this parking ban seriously and make safe plans for your vehicle," wrote the town late Monday morning.

TRASH COLLECTION DELAY

Due to the impending storm, Paine’s — West Hartford's trash contractor — will not be collecting trash or recycling material on Tuesday.

As a result, Tuesday through Friday routes will be collected one day late culminating with Friday's area being picked up on Saturday.

Do not put your barrels at the curb. Paine's administrative office will be closed on Tuesday.

CLOSURES & CANCELATIONS
The following facilities will be closed on Tuesday:
• Senior centers
• Skating rink
• Libraries
• Recycling center
• Mobile Foodshare at 100 Mayflower St. (11 a.m.) and West Hartford Food Pantry distribution at West Hartford Town Hall (3:3 to 5 p.m.) will be canceled.
• West Hartford Public Schools will issue their notice this evening if schools are closed. Recreation classes and programs follow the school's cancellation policy. Tune in to WFSB TV 3.

WHEN IS PLOWING FINISHED?
Deep accumulating snow requires several plow passes on a street.

When possible please wait until your street is completed before you or your contractor cleans your sidewalk and driveway apron for the final time.

POWER OUTAGES
Be cautious when around or under overhead branches.

Heavy snow may cause them to break and take down a power line.

Report power outages to Eversource at 800-286-2000. Get Alerts on the Eversource Mobile App.

People will be able to report or check your power outage, view the outage map, and get restoration updates from any Apple or Android device.

BE PREPARED

Make sure cell phones are charged and you have batteries for flashlights.

Stay off the roads as much as possible during the storm.

If you must venture out, make sure you and your car are ready for the snow.

Check your tires. If tires are aged or have high miles on them, limit your travel until the roads are clear. Check operating fluids like windshield washer fluid.

Carry a snow brush to clean car roofs and windows before travel. Only travel if you have to, road conditions will be unpredictable and conditions will change without notice.

Have proper attire and footwear. Sidewalks and parking lots will be snow-covered and icy.

HELP A NEIGHBOR
Snow will be heavy and hard to move.

Please help your neighbor if you are able. Do not take any unnecessary health risks.

OFF-STREET PARKING

All municipal lots and garages will be available for safe off-street parking.

If a school lot is used, vehicles must be removed by 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, so crews can clear those lots for school on Wednesday. All fees apply in town pay to park lots and garages.

Pay-to-park fees will apply at municipal center parking lots and parking garages.

Motorists may register their plate using one of the kiosks inside the garage or use a mobile app (ie. Flowbird app or PassportParking app).

Park cars close together in municipal lots. Do not leave parking spaces between cars. This helps plow drivers clear snow efficiently.

ENFORCEMENT

The West Hartford Police Department will be assisting the DPW to ensure roads are clear of illegally parked vehicles.

Cars in violation of the parking ban will be ticketed and towed. Do not snowplow or push snow into the street.

SIDEWALKS

Per town ordinance, West Hartford property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from the sidewalk along their property line within 12 hours after the storm or sunrise, whichever is later, and keeping them clear of snow and ice.

Heavily used sidewalks near schools, public buildings, and commercial areas are essential.

To report a snow-clearing violation, call the West Hartford Police Department at 860-523-5203.

HYDRANTS

Residents are asked to help the West Hartford Fire Department and protect neighboring properties by shoveling around fire hydrants.

EMERGENCY ALERTS

Get alerts about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for West Hartford’s Community Advisory Notification System.

This emergency alert system enables the town to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations by text, voice, and email.

Visit https://www.westhartfordct.gov/how-do-i-2/get-notified.

Folks can also check out the Ready.gov website on how to prepare for winter storms at this site https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.