FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 17, 2019

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanisha Jumper, Media and Communications, tjumper@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-5152

Stacy Ellifritt, Media and Communications, stacy.ellifritt@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-2005

Annual Snow and Ice Training Scheduled October 21 – 22

The City of Tacoma’s Street Operations Division is holding their annual snow and ice training on Monday, October 21 and Tuesday, October 22, between 7:30 AM to 4 PM each day. During this time frame, emergency snow vehicles will be dispatched for crews to experience operating these vehicles along snow routes and around traffic.

During a snowstorm event, City crews plow and de-ice streets on a priority level, starting with primary arterial streets and then followed by secondary and auxiliary routes. The time required to clear these routes depends on the intensity of a particular snowstorm and how much snow or ice accumulates.

Community members can prepare now for winter weather by equipping vehicles with good tires, windshield wipers, chains, sand and emergency supplies. Those living on a hill, or somewhere difficult to access in the snow, should look for a place to legally park their vehicles on nights when snow is forecasted. A location should be selected where putting on chains can be done safely. It is also advised to research public transportation options as another means of travel during a snowstorm event.

For more information on winter preparedness and to view the snow routes map, visit cityoftacoma.org/InclementWeather.

MEDIA PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:

When: Monday, October 21, at 9 AM

What: 20 truck drivers rigging trucks with plows and sanders preparing to go out for training

Where: Streets Operations Division, 2324 South C St., Tacoma, WA 98402

Who: Opportunity to interview with Public Works Assistant Street Division Manager Matt Fengler

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