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SNOW EMERGENCIES Below gives a basic descriptions of how a snow emergency is called and handled by the City of Albany. Hopefully the following will answer any questions you may have. If not please feel free to call DGS at [PHONE REDACTED] Factors in calling a Snow Emergency Snow Emergencies are primarily called based on the total amount of snow accumulation from the storm. Whether or not there is another storm forecasted in the near future. Amount of snow that is already on the street prior to the storm. Temperatures on the day of storm and the days that follow. Snow emergencies are usually called at the completion of the storm for several reasons. When it is snowing our main priority is to keep the driving lanes open for safe passage for emergency vehicles and all other vehicular traffic. We do not shift over to snow removal until storm is complete. We want to make sure that the total snow accumulation is what was called for, because we do not always receive the forecasted amount. Emergencies are mainly called for the removal of snow and push back of trouble areas. Snow removal requires the city to call in contractors which could be costly. It would not be cost effective to bring these contractors in until the storm in complete. Snow emergency lots need to be cleaned prior to the start of the Emergency and this cannot be done until it stops snowing. Other factors We try to give residents sufficient time to plan ahead for this reason we try to give approximately 12 hours notice. This also gives us time to notify the media and arrange other types of notification. The main portion of the removal is done at night because there is less traffic which causes less disruption with the removal process which helps keep cost lower and workers safer. The Emergency it self When a Emergency is declared it is announced in the following manners: New Media Radio & TV, Message Boards & Signs placed throughout the city, City’s Web Site www.albanyny.gov, Snow Hotline 518-476- SNOW(7669), facebook/Albany Police Department, Twitter/Albany Police Department, nyalert.gov, www.nixle.com When an Emergency is called all normal parking rules and regulations are temporarily suspended in the city. (You still cannot block hydrants, park in crosswalks, or park in handicap spot without a handicap permit.) At the time the Emergency goes into effect you must move your car to the even side of the road for the first 24 hours. (failure to do this may result in your car being ticketed and/or towed) After the first 24 hours from the start of the Emergency all vehicles are to be moved to the odd side of the street for the remaining 24 hours. Miscellaneous The City ordinance puts the onus of clearing sidewalks on the property owners. All sidewalks adjacent to your property which includes handicap ramps must be cleaned within 24 hours of the completion of the storm. If this is not done the property will be posted and cleaned, the owner will receive a fine and a bill for the service performed. It is Illegal to place snow from any walkway and or driveway into any city street or highway if caught doing so the resident or contractor can be fined. If your vehicle is towed and you have questions regarding the tow or location of your vehicle call APD at 518- 438-4000. Snow broachers can also be obtained at any Library, Police or Fire Station, City Hall, or DGS.