The city of Madison has declared a snow emergency.  The snow emergency will remain in effect until 7am on 12/31/15.
 
The Streets Division had 32 crews that continually serviced the salt routes overnight.  Starting at 5am today, we will begin plowing residential streets.  We have called in our contractors, and our combined snow plow force will be approximately 170 pieces of equipment.  Due to the depth and density of this snow, we expect it will take 12 hours to clear all residential streets curb-to-curb.

The main streets remain in good winter driving condition, but slippery spots persist.  Caution and patience are recommended.  While residential streets are being cleared, temporary windrows may impede access to side streets.  As always, make good choices by planning for extra travel time, allowing extra braking distance, and following all other safe winter driving techniques.
 
With the declared snow emergency, residents in the Snow Emergency Zone must abide by alternate side parking rules, as should the rest of the city of Madison.  Alternate side parking restrictions for the Snow Emergency Zone will be in effect on 12/30 from 1am to 7am, and again on 12/31 from 1am to 7am.

Vehicles parked on the street this evening should park on the even house numbered side of the street.  Vehicles parked on the street Wednesday evening should park on the odd house numbered side of the street.  Violations of the alternate side parking rules are punishable by a fine of $60 throughout the entire City of Madison.  Violators could also be towed.  Be aware that all daytime parking restrictions will be enforced.

Parking is available in the cashiered sections of city-owned ramps in the downtown area.  During the declared snow emergency, you can park for no charge at the City ramps from 9pm until 7am.  If you enter before 9pm, or leave after 7am, you are liable for any parking charges accrued before 9pm and from 7am until the time you leave.

When parking in the ramps overnight, do not park on the top level so this area can be plowed.  Be aware that vehicles stored in city ramps longer than 48 hours are subject to being ticketed and towed.  Meters in lots and ramps are enforced 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.

Parking is also available at the Brittingham Park Shelter parking lot off W. Washington Ave.
 
This particular snow is wet and very heavy. And with the 6-plus inches of accumulation, residents should expect deep, heavy windrows at the base of their driveway after the streets have been plowed.  These windrows are the residents’ responsibility to clear, and they may prove difficult.  Please be patient and take appropriate precautions when clearing this snow. 
 
It is recommended that residents sign up for winter weather updates through the City of Madison winter website.  On this site, residents can sign up to receive emails that provide plowing updates, snow emergency updates, and sidewalk clearing alerts.  Residents can stay up to date to plan their commutes and stay informed on snow operations.  The website hosts several other links to useful winter information, ranging from winter recreation activities to location of public sand piles.