Winter in Jamestown brings snowfall, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) is committed to keeping streets clear and safe. Here’s what you need to know about our snow removal operations.
DPW’s Massive Winter Responsibility
The Department of Public Works maintains over 450 streets and 155 miles of roadway—stretching the equivalent of a round trip from Jamestown to Buffalo, twice. This extensive network makes snow removal a major undertaking.
For comparison:
- Corning (population ~20,000) maintains just over 100 streets.
- Canandaigua (population ~10,000) manages 150 streets.
- Ithaca and Oneonta (population ~30,000) maintain 200–250 streets.
Jamestown’s street system is comparable to larger cities but presents unique challenges. Narrow streets, steep hills, and lake-effect snow from Lake Erie create unpredictable conditions requiring continuous adjustments.
Plowing Zones & Process
The city is divided into 10 plowing zones:
Zone Plowing: Each zone has an assigned plow, completing its route in 6 to 10 hours, depending on weather and traffic.
Priority Streets: Before residential streets are plowed, two plows from adjacent zones work together to clear main roads and collector routes.
Main Roads & Arterials: Two large wing-plow trucks with salt spreaders manage these routes.
Salt Spreaders: Two dedicated salt spreaders operate during snow events.
Staffing & Shifts
- Day Shift: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Night Shift: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM
- Mid-Shift: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Continuous Operations During Storms: Crews work overtime as needed.
Sidewalks, Alleys, & Cleanup
- Downtown Sidewalks: Cleared by the Parks Department during street plowing operations.
- School Zones: Cleared before school opens.
- Alleys & Dead Ends: Managed during full plowing operations.
- Post-Storm Cleanup: Crews revisit streets to clear snow from around parked cars and haul away excess snow downtown.
Snow Removal Policies
- Plowing Begins: When accumulations exceed 2 inches or icy conditions develop.
- Priority Order:
- 1. Main roads, emergency routes, and downtown areas.
- 2. Secondary streets and school zones.
- 3. Residential streets and alleys.
- Downtown Removal: Snow is hauled away when it obstructs traffic or parking.
Parking Regulations
To ensure efficient plowing, parking rules are strictly enforced:
- Alternate Side Parking: From October 1 to March 31, vehicles must switch sides by 10:00 AM daily.
- Downtown Parking Ban: No parking 2:00 AM – 7:00 AM during winter.
- Violations: Illegally parked vehicles may be towed.
Resident Responsibilities
- Clear Sidewalks: Property owners must clear sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall.
- Dispose of Snow Properly: Shoveling snow into streets violates City Code §252-14 Sec. D.
- Fire Hydrants: Keep hydrants clear to assist emergency services.
Helpful Tips for Residents
- Avoid Street Parking: Use driveways or designated parking areas.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Stay 100 feet behind plows and avoid passing.
- Prepare for Driveway Ridges: Plows may leave snow ridges at driveway entrances.
Reporting Issues & Damage
For unplowed streets, icy conditions, or property damage from plows:
- 📞DPW Main Office: (716) 483-7545
- 📞After-Hours Number: (716) 483-7558
Snow Plowing FAQs
- Why hasn’t my street been plowed yet? Plowing follows a priority schedule—main roads and emergency routes first.
- Will the City clear my driveway? No, residents are responsible for their driveways.
- What if a plow damages my property? Report damage to DPW at (716) 483-7545
Contact Information
City of Jamestown
Department of Public Works
145 Steele Street
Jamestown, New York 14701
📞Phone: (716) 483-7545
