The City of Wrenford's Civic Operations Centre is kicking off the annual spring street sweep today. Crews will travel through neighbourhoods to clear winter sand, debris and leaves from the roadways before they wash into the storm drains.
The sweep runs from April through May, sweeping by neighbourhood in phases. The first phase covers downtown, high-density areas and main roads along the Tamsin River. In the second phase, crews will move through residential streets, including the crescents and courts in the newer subdivisions.
"We're clearing the roads so the rain can drain properly and keeping our streets clean for everyone," said Roads Superintendent James Whitford. "It is a big job, but it makes a real difference when the snow melts."
During the sweep, you may see large trucks moving slowly through your area. To keep the crews and the public safe, please follow these tips:
- Park your vehicle in your garage or driveway before the sweep day arrives.
- Close your windows. The sweeping process can kick up dust.
- Walk on the sidewalk away from the trucks.
- If you are driving, slow down and leave plenty of space.
Crews use a vacuum system to pick up sand, leaves and light debris from the road surface. This material is taken directly to the waste management facility for sorting and recycling. Keeping these materials off the streets helps the City maintain a smooth driving surface and prevents storm drains from clogging.
The street sweep happens each spring to remove the sand and salt used during the winter season. If you notice potholes or cracks in the road that need attention after the sweep, you can report a pothole online or call 311. The City also carries out the Spring Road Repair Programme to fix larger issues across the network.
You can find out when crews will be in your neighbourhood by checking the Roads & Winter Maintenance page on the City website. Updates on the sweep schedule are also posted there.
Thank you for your patience as we get the city ready for warmer weather.