Grand Rapids Encourages Residents To Clear Sidewalks Of Snow And Ice

Press release from the City of Grand Rapids:

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – With winter snow making its appearance the last couple of weeks and more snow expected in the weeks to follow, the City of Grand Rapids is reminding citizens that it is their responsibility to keep the sidewalks adjacent to their property clear of all snow and ice.

City ordinance requires that all property owners completely clear all ice and snow, full width of sidewalk down to the concrete, from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours of a snowfall. When the City receives a complaint about a sidewalk that has not been cleared, the property owner will be mailed a written Notice of Complaint or a notice will be posted on the property of the violation.

If the sidewalk is not cleared within 48 hours following the notice, the City will hire a snow removal contractor to complete the work. The property owner will be billed $25 for every 15 minutes of labor and a $95 administrative fee. If snow removal crews find sidewalks cleared upon arrival a crew mobilization fee will still be applied. During last year’s winter, the City received 970 complaints and was ultimately forced to clear 139 of those sidewalks.

Enforcement of this ordinance is even applicable to those who might happen to own property along the 100 miles of sidewalk in the City’s Sidewalk Snow Support pilot program. After the City’s contractor provides sidewalk snow removal support in the pilot area, property owners and residents are still responsible for removing any remaining snow and ice.

Prompt removal of snow and ice keep the city’s sidewalks safe and accessible, particularly for neighbors, postal carriers, and children walking to and from school.

“Shoveled sidewalks contribute to the livability of our neighborhoods by providing year-round mobility options for all residents, especially those who are not able to drive or who choose not to drive,” said City Engineer Tim Burkman. “Promptly clearing snow and ice keeps our pedestrian network safe and accessible in the winter months, particularly for seniors, children, and those with disabilities, so that all people can get to work, school, healthcare, shopping, and places of worship.”

Individuals needing assistance in clearing sidewalks should contract with a private snowplowing company or seek out possible alternatives via the United Way (2-1-1) or their neighborhood association.

Residents who encounter a sidewalk that has not been cleared within the 24-hour window may file a complaint by calling 3-1-1 (616-456-3000) or online at inspections.grcity.us/citizenaccess by clicking on Report a Code Violation.

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This press release was produced by the City of Grand Rapids. The views expressed are the author's own.