Omaha Snow Removal Plan for Streetcar Construction Zones
Omaha construction crews are planning for potential winter challenges along the streetcar route, where narrow streets, barricades and snow are a concern. Streetcar construction has reduced several areas to one lane, including Farnam. The city said the goal of clearing snow this winter is to keep access to those roads open.
One lane open in many sections
City Engineer Steven Rue said the construction leaves little room to put snow.
"We have a lot of sections that are only going to have one lane open, and there’s not anywhere really to put the snow with the construction there," Rue said.
Plowing, salting, and parking
Rue said crews expect to plow and salt as usual for up to two inches of snow. As snowfall increases, street parking may suffer.
"Parking is going to get bagged. That’s going to become snow storage locations for us to come back and do pickup," Rue said.
Rue said larger snowfalls would affect more parking. "If we are anticipating four inches of snow or more, or really heavy snow, I would anticipate all the parking that we have available, including some side street parking to get bagged, for us to use that to push snow in so we can maintain access in that open lane," Rue said.
Business owner not worried about parking
Crescent Moon, located along the streetcar corridor, doesn't have concerns about reduced parking, according to owner Bill Baburek.
"I think the parking thing is, is somewhat overblown. It’s a, it’s a little bit of misconception on parking," Baburek said.
Baburek notes that winter always brings lower business. "I don’t know if it will impact us any more than it would normally impact us because people, you know, a lot of people just don’t want to go out when there’s snow and ice," Baburek said.
Hauling snow and short closures
Rue said crews may have to haul snow away during the day. Crews may also briefly close small sections of street to make room for equipment. He emphasized the goal is to keep the corridor open and businesses accessible.
"We will do everything we can to maintain that during a snow event to make sure that people can come down here and continue to do the things they need to do every day," Rue said.
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