Providence DPW to Kickoff Winter Preparedness with Snow Plowing Techniques and Key Routes
PROVIDENCE, RI– Mayor Brett P. Smiley will today join Department of Public Works (DPW) Director Patricia Coyne-Fague for a winter preparedness exercise where members of the DPW team will practice snow plowing techniques on salt piles. This exercise is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure that DPW is fully prepared for the upcoming winter season.
“Since the start of this Administration, my goal as mayor has been to improve the quality-of-life for our neighbors. That starts with ensuring that essential city services, like snow removal, are carried out efficiently and reliably,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “By training our DPW crew and providing them with the tools and resources they need, we are reinforcing our commitment to keeping the streets of Providence safe and accessible throughout the winter months. Our DPW team is ready to meet the challenges of the season, and we are confident they will continue to provide the reliable services our community depends on.”
Today’s exercise is one of several that the department has hosted since October. During these trainings, plow drivers review their assigned routes, practice troubleshooting problems that could arise during storms and train on using the right amount of salt based on winter conditions. Beyond these training sessions, DPW is committed to ensuring that all trucks and equipment have been thoroughly inspected and are ready for immediate deployment.
Additionally, the city is paying close attention to potential flooding, particularly as snow melts or in the event of a warmer winter. Over the past two summers, Providence has experienced stronger storms and higher-heat days, leading to more frequent flooding in certain areas. In response, the city has ramped up its flooding mitigation efforts, including increased dredging of the city’s largest waterways, more frequent maintenance of storm drains and efforts to integrate natural stormwater mitigation practices into homes and businesses across the capital city.
As the winter season approaches, neighbor should consider these winter preparedness tips, can expect timely updates on winter weather and find street conditions by monitoring official city channels. Residents can also connect to the Mayor’s Center for City Services by dialing 311, visiting PVD311.com or downloading the PVD311 mobile app for 24/7 access.
