Brookfield Gets Back to Business After Surprisingly Big Snowfall

By Wednesday morning, an expected snowfall of 3-5 inches piled up to around 8 inches in a storm that had many scratching their heads. It was the snowfall that seemed to change from the moment it was first forecast and continued to "morph" even as the flakes fell.

WeatherWatch 12 chief meteorologist Mark Baden called it "a humbling storm for all meteorologists in southeast Wisconsin. It was quite a storm; I think the most surprising thing about this storm was the amount of moisture it was able to transport."

Much of Waukesha County fell within a 7-13 inch snowband, but never was under a winter storm warning.

Nevertheless Elmbrook schools were in session, and residents felt the decision was a good one, needing only a few tweaks in the planning.

"Considering my husband and his truck pulled three yellow buses out of the ditch in front of the house this morning, it would be better if the school system coordinated with the city to have the neighborhoods plowed first," said Gela Ashcroft on Facebook.

Others said it was just a matter of getting used to living in Wisconsin.

"Since the main roads are just wet, not snow covered, I think it is the perfect place for the kids to be!" Curt Downes said.

In addition, a recorded message at Advanced Disposal, which handles Brookfield trash collection, notes that all trash pickup today will take place as scheduled, though the snow could slow things down.

Snow Plows Working to Perfect Conditions

In addition, plow drivers for the city have been out in force. Public Works Superintendent Terry Starns said the city crews have been working overnight, and main roads are "perfect...we are still working on the subdivisions, but I would expect we would have operations wrapped up between noon and 2 p.m."

Starns said that they had two plows working on main roads, with an additional 20 working on residential streets. 

"It's been wet and heavy snow for us to move around, but overall we love the warmer temperatures because it helps the salt work much better," he explained.

Brookfield's fleet of plows resides with the DPW at 19700 Riverview Drive. If you have a complaint or want to heap a little praise on the plow drivers, you can also call 262-782-5029 between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Other Questions? 

The snowplow damaged my lawn. Who is responsible?

The snowplow hit my mailbox. Who is responsible?

What if the snowplow damages my lawn sprinkler head?

The snowplow left a lot of snow in my driveway, who is going to clean it up?

Why is my street always plowed last?

I live on a cul-de-sac, why do the snowplow drivers only make one pass through it?

Whose responsibility is it to shovel out a fire hydrant or mailbox?

Bike paths & sidewalks in the City’s right of way are cleared by the Park, Recreation & Forestry department. Call 262-796-6681 for questions on when trails near your home will be cleared.