Madison - Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today urged Madisonians to observe snow emergency parking rules, so city plows can clear streets effectively. A snow emergency has been declared until at least 7:00 a.m. on Friday, February 8th.

Vehicles that are not moved in accordance with snow emergency regulations may be towed immediately in areas where the streets have been severely impacted by snow.

Cars that do not move when a snow emergency is called interfere with city plowing operations. Plows must maneuver around parked cars, resulting in reduced parking and narrower streets. In some areas of downtown, streets can become narrow to the point where emergency vehicles have difficulty getting through.

"City plows will be working overtime to get the streets cleared, but car owners need to do their part by moving their vehicles," said Mayor Cieslewicz. "City parking ramps and free parking lots are available for cars to be moved to. Please take advantage of these options so we can clear the streets as quickly as possible. By taking these steps, Madisonians can help city crews fight what are becoming some of the worst weather conditions Madison has seen in recent years. I strongly encourage everyone to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."

In response to the snow-related cleanup issues in December, the City put in places new measures to help get cars off of downtown streets. Cars can now be parked for free in city-owned downtown parking ramps between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Cars can also be parked for free at city-maintained parking lots at Burr Jones Park, Tenney Park and Olbrich Park.

The city is also in the process of reviewing other changes, including enhanced methods for notifying residents when a snow emergency is called; higher fines for snow emergency violations; expansion of the street sweeping parking regulations to become year-round; and other measures.

Madisonians can get complete snow emergency information, and sign up for email notification when a snow emergency is called, at www.cityofmadison.com/streets, or by calling 261-9111.

In addition, the Mayor has invoked the City's inclement weather policy, giving non-essential City staff the option of leaving early. Basic City services such as Police, Fire and snow removal will continue to be provided.